aggravations

Aggravations is the plural of aggravation, a term used to describe the act of making something worse or more troublesome. It can refer to a worsening in condition, a source of irritation, or a circumstance that aggravates a problem. The word comes from the Latin aggravare, meaning to weigh down or to make heavier.

In medicine and health, aggravation indicates a progression of symptoms or disease, such as the aggravation of arthritis pain. It is sometimes distinguished from exacerbation, though usage varies by field; both terms imply increased severity, but exacerbation often connotes a temporary worsening. Aggravating factors in patient care include infection, stress, nonadherence to treatment, or other illnesses.

In law, aggravating factors are circumstances that raise the seriousness of an offense, potentially leading to harsher penalties. Examples include premeditation, intent to harm, cruelty, use of weapons, or crimes against vulnerable victims. In everyday language, aggravations can also refer to annoyances or frustrations arising from ongoing issues, such as delays or bureaucratic hurdles. Mitigating factors may reduce penalties or perceived blame.