The phrase "took edge off" refers to a situation where the intensity or severity of something has been reduced. Antonyms for this phrase include "heightened," "intensified," "exacerbated," "exaggerated," and "amplified." When something is heightened or intensified, it becomes more severe or intense, rather than being reduced. Similarly, when something is exacerbated, it becomes worse or more extreme, as opposed to being made more bearable. Exaggerated and amplified imply an increase in the strength or intensity of something, rather than a decrease. These antonyms demonstrate how the opposite of "took edge off" can lead to an increase in intensity, rather than a reduction.