Cool MateB12K
Drastic
UK //ˈdræstɪk//US //ˈdræstɪk//
Definition
Severe or extreme in effect or action.
In simple words: Very serious or extreme
Examples
- The company made drastic cuts to reduce expenses.
- Her drastic behavior surprised everyone at the party.
- Drastic climate changes are affecting agriculture worldwide.
- They faced drastic consequences for their actions.
- He proposed drastic reforms to improve the education system.
Usage notes
Used to describe changes or actions that are very strong or severe. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'drastic' as 'drastic measures' in a movie where heroes take extreme actions to save the day.
Collocations
- drastic measures
- drastic changes
- drastic differences
- drastic action
- drastic reduction
Synonyms
- extreme
- severe
- radical
- significant
- serious
Antonyms
- mild
- gentle
- subtle
Common mistakes
- Confusing with 'drastic' versus 'drastic changes' - the word is stronger when used with context.
- Using 'drastic' in a positive sense, when it usually describes negative changes.
- Misplacing 'drastic' in sentences, often forgetting it needs a context.