Aggravation refers to the intensification of a negative condition or state.
Word in 30 Seconds
- A process where a situation or illness becomes worse.
- Used to describe negative developments in health or social issues.
- Often implies a formal or serious tone in communication.
Vue d'ensemble
Le mot 'aggravation' provient du latin 'aggravatio'. En français, il marque une transition négative : ce qui était difficile devient intolérable. C'est un terme neutre mais formel, souvent employé dans des contextes médicaux, juridiques ou sociaux pour souligner une pente descendante.
Modèles d'utilisation
On utilise généralement ce mot avec le verbe 'constater' ou 'observer'. La structure classique est 'l'aggravation de [quelque chose]'. Par exemple, on parlera de l'aggravation d'une crise économique ou de l'aggravation d'un état de santé. Il ne s'agit pas d'un événement soudain comme un accident, mais bien d'une évolution.
Contextes courants
Dans le domaine médical, il est très fréquent d'entendre parler de 'l'aggravation des symptômes', ce qui pousse le médecin à changer de traitement. Dans le milieu professionnel, on peut évoquer 'l'aggravation d'un conflit' au sein d'une équipe. Enfin, dans un contexte judiciaire, une 'circonstance aggravante' est un élément qui rend une infraction plus lourde de conséquences.
Comparaison
Contrairement au mot 'détérioration', qui peut s'appliquer à des objets (une voiture, un bâtiment), 'aggravation' est réservé aux états, aux processus ou aux conditions abstraites. Là où 'dégradation' suggère une perte de qualité, 'aggravation' insiste sur l'augmentation du danger ou de la gravité ressentie.
Examples
L'aggravation de la météo a forcé l'annulation du vol.
everydayThe worsening of the weather forced the flight cancellation.
Nous craignons une aggravation des tensions diplomatiques.
formalWe fear an aggravation of diplomatic tensions.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
circonstances aggravantes
aggravating circumstances
Often Confused With
In French, 'agacement' means annoyance or irritation. English speakers often mistakenly use 'aggravation' for this, which is a false friend.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Aggravation is primarily a formal noun. Avoid using it for minor annoyances, as it sounds too dramatic. It is best suited for health, social, or economic contexts.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is using 'aggravation' to mean 'annoyance' due to the English influence. Remember that in French, it is strictly about the severity of a situation. Also, do not use it for physical objects breaking down.
Tips
Use with the verb 'constater'
Pairing 'aggravation' with 'constater' makes your sentence sound very professional and precise.
Do not confuse with 'agacement'
In English, 'aggravation' can mean annoyance. In French, it never means being annoyed; it only refers to things getting worse.
Legal context in France
In French law, 'circonstances aggravantes' is a standard term used to justify harsher sentences for criminals.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'aggravatio', from 'ad-' (to) and 'gravis' (heavy). It literally means making something heavier or more burdensome.
Cultural Context
In France, this word is frequently heard in news reports regarding climate change or public health crises. It carries a sense of urgency and gravity.
Memory Tip
Think of 'aggravation' as a 'grave' situation getting 'heavier'. It is a serious word for serious problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNon, on préférera le mot 'dégradation' pour un objet physique. L'aggravation est réservée aux états de santé, aux situations sociales ou aux processus abstraits.
Une complication est un événement imprévu qui rend la situation difficile, tandis que l'aggravation est le fait que la situation elle-même devienne plus grave.
Il est assez formel. À l'oral, on dira souvent 'ça empire' plutôt que 'il y a une aggravation'.
Test Yourself
Le médecin a noté une ___ de l'état de santé du patient.
Le contexte médical exige un terme désignant un état qui devient plus grave.
Score: /1
Summary
Aggravation refers to the intensification of a negative condition or state.
- A process where a situation or illness becomes worse.
- Used to describe negative developments in health or social issues.
- Often implies a formal or serious tone in communication.
Use with the verb 'constater'
Pairing 'aggravation' with 'constater' makes your sentence sound very professional and precise.
Do not confuse with 'agacement'
In English, 'aggravation' can mean annoyance. In French, it never means being annoyed; it only refers to things getting worse.
Legal context in France
In French law, 'circonstances aggravantes' is a standard term used to justify harsher sentences for criminals.
Examples
2 of 2L'aggravation de la météo a forcé l'annulation du vol.
The worsening of the weather forced the flight cancellation.
Nous craignons une aggravation des tensions diplomatiques.
We fear an aggravation of diplomatic tensions.
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