Radically: meaning, definitions and examples

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radically

 

[ ˈradɪk(ə)li ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

adverb of manner

In a way that relates to or affects the fundamental nature of something; completely and extremely.

Synonyms

completely, extremely, thoroughly, totally, utterly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
radically

Used when talking about fundamental or major changes. Often implies a transformative or revolutionary shift.

  • The company needed to radically change its business model to survive
  • The town's landscape was radically altered after the storm
completely

Used when something is done in full, without anything left out. Suitable for emphasizing totality.

  • She completely forgot about the meeting
  • The room was completely silent
extremely

Used to emphasize a high degree of something, often with emotions or qualities.

  • He was extremely tired after the marathon
  • The weather was extremely hot
utterly

Used to emphasize an absolute or complete state, often with a negative connotation.

  • The project was utterly disastrous
  • He felt utterly alone
totally

Similar to 'completely', but often used in more casual contexts or to express strong agreement.

  • I totally agree with you
  • The plan was totally messed up
thoroughly

Used when something is done with great attention to detail, ensuring every aspect is considered.

  • She thoroughly enjoyed the book
  • The report was thoroughly reviewed for errors

Examples of usage

  • He had radically changed his views on the subject.
  • She felt the situation had changed radically.
Context #2 | Adverb

adverb of degree

Used to emphasize the extent of a change or difference.

Synonyms

dramatically, markedly, significantly, substantially.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
radically

Use 'radically' when referring to a change or difference that is extreme and affects the very foundation of something.

  • The company's policies have been radically altered to improve sustainability.
  • Her perspective on life changed radically after traveling the world.
significantly

‘Significantly’ is appropriate for a change or difference that is important and considerable, often used in a statistical or factual context.

  • The study showed that the new drug reduces symptoms significantly.
  • Her grades improved significantly after she started studying more.
dramatically

‘Dramatically’ is best used when referring to a change or difference that is very noticeable and often surprising or exciting.

  • The weather changed dramatically over the weekend.
  • Her health improved dramatically after starting the new treatment.
markedly

Use ‘markedly’ when pointing out a significant and easy-to-notice change or difference that stands out clearly.

  • The new design is markedly better than the old one.
  • There was a markedly positive response to the new advertisement campaign.
substantially

‘Substantially’ is ideal when referring to something that is large in amount or degree, often implying a meaningful or significant level of change or difference.

  • The company's profits have increased substantially this year.
  • Housing costs have risen substantially over the past decade.

Examples of usage

  • The new version is radically different from the original.
  • The prices have dropped radically in the past few months.

Translations

Translations of the word "radically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 radicalmente

🇮🇳 कट्टरता से

🇩🇪 radikal

🇮🇩 secara radikal

🇺🇦 радикально

🇵🇱 radykalnie

🇯🇵 根本的に

🇫🇷 radicalement

🇪🇸 radicalmente

🇹🇷 radikal olarak

🇰🇷 근본적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل جذري

🇨🇿 radikálně

🇸🇰 radikálne

🇨🇳 彻底地

🇸🇮 radikalno

🇮🇸 róttækt

🇰🇿 радикалды түрде

🇬🇪 რადიკალურად

🇦🇿 radikal olaraq

🇲🇽 radicalmente

Etymology

The word 'radically' originates from the Latin word 'radicalis', which means 'of or having roots'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, its usage expanded to convey the idea of something being fundamentally changed or extreme. Today, 'radically' is commonly used to describe significant or complete transformations.

See also: radicalism, radicalness.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,301 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.