It means the dispute or disagreement has become more serious, more intense, or more difficult to resolve.

In plain English, “the row has deepened” usually means:

  • The conflict has escalated.
  • More people or issues have become involved.
  • The sides are further apart than before.
  • The chances of a quick resolution may be lower.

For example, in a headline like “the defence funding row deepens,” it suggests the disagreement over defence spending is getting worse, often because of new resignations, sharper criticism, or more political pressure.

Simple example

  • “The row started over one issue.”
  • “Then new statements or actions made it worse.”
  • “So journalists say the row has deepened.”

In a headline

When media use this phrase, they are usually describing an escalating conflict , not something physical. The exact meaning depends on the article, but the core idea is that the argument has grown more serious.

So, “the row has deepened” = “the argument has intensified.”