radically
RA-dihk-lee
Radically (adverb) means In a fundamental or extreme way; thoroughly. Example: “The new policy radically changed how the company operated.”
adverb
1
In a fundamental or extreme way; thoroughly.
"The new policy radically changed how the company operated."
"Their opinions differ radically on the issue."
How to use radically
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCompletely or fundamentally — describes a change or difference that goes to the root of things.
Common pairings
radically different
radically change
radically altered
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more radically
- Superlative
- most radically
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The new policy _____ changed how the company operated.
Etymology
From "radical" plus the adverb-forming suffix "-ly".
Related words
Rhymes for radically
See all rhymes for radically →Frequently asked questions
What does “radically” mean?
The word “radically” means in a fundamental or extreme way; thoroughly. In plain terms, completely or fundamentally — describes a change or difference that goes to the root of things.
How do you pronounce “radically”?
“Radically” is pronounced RA-dihk-lee (/ˈɹædɪkli/ in IPA).
How do you use “radically” in a sentence?
Here is “radically” used in a sentence: “The new policy radically changed how the company operated.”
What part of speech is “radically”?
“Radically” is an adverb.
Is “radically” a common word?
“Radically” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between radically and drastically?
Radically emphasizes a fundamental, root-level change in nature or character, while drastically emphasizes the severity or suddenness of a change. Something can change drastically in degree without being radically different in kind, though the two words often overlap in practice.
What kinds of words does radically typically modify?
Radically commonly pairs with words like 'different,' 'changed,' 'altered,' or 'transformed' to stress that something has shifted at a fundamental level rather than in a minor way.
Is radically used only for negative changes?
No, radically is neutral and can describe fundamental change in either a positive or negative direction, such as a radically improved process or a radically worse outcome.
