escalation

工资增长引发了生活成本的快速上涨。

The wage increase caused an ___escalation in the cost of living.

贸易争端的迅速升级导致了双方关系的紧张。

The rapid ___escalation of the trade dispute caused tension between both sides.

他凭借出色的业绩迅速晋升为部门经理。

His outstanding performance led to a quick ___escalation to department manager.