Antonyms for the phrase "took the edge off" include intensify, sharpen, heighten, amplify, aggravate, exasperate, irritate, provoke, worsen, exacerbate, and incite. These antonyms convey the opposite meaning of "took the edge off," which suggests a reduction in stress, tension, or anxiety. In contrast, intensify, sharpen, and heighten suggest an increase in the intensity or severity of a situation or emotion. Amplify, aggravate, and exasperate imply making things worse or more difficult, while irritate, provoke, and exacerbate indicate causing or aggravating annoyance or anger in someone. Therefore, using antonyms of "took the edge off" can result in a more confrontational, challenging, or demanding tone, depending on the context.