radical
RAD-ih-kul
/ˈrædɪkəl/
Relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something; far-reaching or thorough.
In politics, it refers to those wanting extreme change from the 'roots' up, rather than gradual reform.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'radix', meaning 'root'. A radical change is one that goes all the way down to the roots of a system to pull it up and start over.
Word relationships
- fundamental: 'Fundamental' is neutral; 'radical' often implies a desire for aggressive or extreme change.
- extreme: 'Extreme' focuses on the distance from the center; 'radical' focuses on going to the 'root' of the matter.
- conservative: Preferring to keep things as they are or change them very slowly.
- superficial: Affecting only the surface rather than the root.
Commonly confused with
- revolutionary: 'Radical' describes the depth of the idea; 'revolutionary' describes the act of overturning the system.
Word family
- radicalism (noun): The beliefs or actions of people who advocate thorough reform.
- radically (adverb): In a thorough or fundamental way.
- radicalize (verb): To cause someone to adopt extreme positions.
Collocations
- radical change
- radical departure
- radical ideas
- radical reform
Example sentences
- "I am a radical, and I am a revolutionist." Political manifesto.
- "The company needs a radical overhaul of its outdated manufacturing processes." Business strategy.
Memory hook
A 'radish' is a 'root' vegetable. Both 'radish' and 'radical' come from the same Latin root. Getting to the root.
When not to use
Avoid using it as a synonym for 'cool' in formal writing (slang usage).
Fun facts
- In mathematics, the 'radical sign' (√) is used to find the 'root' of a number.
Related words
Explore more words
revolutionize, reform, iconoclastic, transform, subversive, abolish
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