Drastically: meaning, definitions and examples

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drastically

 

[ˈdræs.tɪ.kli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

adverb

in a way that suggests something is changing dramatically or having a strong impact

Synonyms

dramatically, significantly, substantially.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drastically

Use in situations where something is changing or being done in a very severe, noticeable way. Often implies a radical or extreme change.

  • The company had to drastically cut costs to avoid bankruptcy.
  • The weather changed drastically, turning from sunny to stormy within minutes.
dramatically

Appropriate for describing changes or events that are striking and attract a lot of attention. Can imply both positive and negative alterations and often used in storytelling or news.

  • Her health improved dramatically after the surgery.
  • The stock market fell dramatically due to the unexpected news.
significantly

Fits well when referring to changes or differences that are important in degree or amount but not as extreme as 'drastically'. Suitable for academic, professional, or more formal contexts.

  • The new policy significantly improved employee morale.
  • Climate change has significantly altered weather patterns globally.
substantially

Used when a considerable amount or degree of something is involved. Appropriate for formal or technical discussions where the change is notable but not necessarily extreme.

  • The new equipment has substantially increased production efficiency.
  • He donated a substantial amount of money to the charity.

Examples of usage

  • The company's profits have decreased drastically this year.
  • She has improved drastically since she started taking those classes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'drastikos,' which means capable of doing, linked to action.
  • In the late 19th century, 'drastic' began to be used in English to describe extreme measures or changes.
  • Before its current use, the word was linked to 'drastic medicine,' implying strong treatment effects.

Science

  • In environmental science, drastically changing ecosystems can lead to loss of biodiversity.
  • Studies show that climate change can drastically alter weather patterns, leading to more severe storms.
  • A drastic change in diet can affect not only physical health but also mental well-being.

Psychology

  • Drastic life changes, such as moving or changing jobs, can significantly affect mental health.
  • Psychologists often see patients who experience drastic shifts in mood or behavior after traumatic events.
  • Coping with drastic changes requires adaptive strategies to manage stress effectively.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often undergo drastic transformations to highlight their character development.
  • Reality TV shows frequently depict drastic alterations in personality or lifestyle to engage viewers.
  • Fashion trends can change drastically from one season to the next, influencing culture significantly.

Literature

  • In many literary works, characters face drastic choices that alter their fate, driving the plot forward.
  • Authors often use drastic contrasts in settings to highlight themes, such as despair vs. hope.
  • Dramatic shifts in narrative perspective can drastically change the reader's understanding of the story.

Translations

Translations of the word "drastically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 drasticamente

🇮🇳 नाटकीय रूप से

🇩🇪 drastisch

🇮🇩 secara drastis

🇺🇦 різко

🇵🇱 drastycznie

🇯🇵 劇的に (げきてきに)

🇫🇷 drastiquement

🇪🇸 drásticamente

🇹🇷 drastik bir şekilde

🇰🇷 극적으로 (geukjeogeuro)

🇸🇦 بشكل جذري (bishakl jadhri)

🇨🇿 drasticky

🇸🇰 drasticky

🇨🇳 急剧地 (jùjù dì)

🇸🇮 drastično

🇮🇸 dramatískt

🇰🇿 түбегейлі (tübegeýli)

🇬🇪 რადიკალურად (radikalurad)

🇦🇿 kəskin şəkildə

🇲🇽 drásticamente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,725, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.