radical
Relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something; far-reaching or thorough. It often describes changes, ideas, or actions that represent a complete departure from tradition or the status quo.
Examples
3 of 5Switching to a vegan diet was a radical change for someone who loved steak.
Changing to a plant-based diet was a very big and fundamental change for a meat-lover.
The government is considering radical reforms to the healthcare system.
The government is looking at making very deep and complete changes to how healthcare works.
That new trick you did on your bike was totally radical!
That new move you performed on your bicycle was extremely cool and impressive!
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'radish.' Both words come from the Latin 'radix,' meaning 'root.' A radical change goes all the way down to the roots.
Quick Quiz
The scientists proposed a ______ new way of capturing solar energy that could replace all fossil fuels.
Correct!
The correct answer is: radical
Examples
Switching to a vegan diet was a radical change for someone who loved steak.
everydayChanging to a plant-based diet was a very big and fundamental change for a meat-lover.
The government is considering radical reforms to the healthcare system.
formalThe government is looking at making very deep and complete changes to how healthcare works.
That new trick you did on your bike was totally radical!
informalThat new move you performed on your bicycle was extremely cool and impressive!
Copernicus proposed a radical theory that the Earth revolves around the sun.
academicCopernicus suggested a revolutionary idea that the Earth orbits the sun instead of being the center.
To save the company from bankruptcy, the board suggested a radical downsizing.
businessTo keep the business from failing, the directors proposed a very extreme reduction in staff and costs.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
radical rethink
a complete reassessment of a situation or plan
radical transparency
a management style where all information is shared openly
radical surgery
an intensive medical operation or a metaphor for extreme corrective measures
Often Confused With
Drastic emphasizes the severity or violence of an effect, while radical emphasizes going to the 'root' or fundamental cause.
Usage Notes
In modern English, 'radical' is often used neutrally in business or science to mean 'fundamental,' but it can carry a negative connotation in politics if it implies extremism.
Common Mistakes
Learners often limit 'radical' to political contexts, but it is frequently used to describe technology, medicine, and personal lifestyle changes.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'radish.' Both words come from the Latin 'radix,' meaning 'root.' A radical change goes all the way down to the roots.
Word Origin
From the Late Latin 'radicalis,' meaning 'of or pertaining to the root.'
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In 1980s American youth culture, 'radical' (often shortened to 'rad') became a popular slang term for 'excellent' or 'awesome.'
Quick Quiz
The scientists proposed a ______ new way of capturing solar energy that could replace all fossil fuels.
Correct!
The correct answer is: radical
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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