A2adjective2K

Extreme

UK /["/ɪkˈstriːm/"]/US /["/ɪkˈstriːm/"]/

Definition

very great in degree

In simple words: Something very strong or intense.

Examples

  • The weather was extreme during the summer, reaching temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • She has an extreme passion for painting, spending every free moment in front of her canvas.
  • He enjoys extreme sports like skydiving and rock climbing.
  • The extreme hike took us all day but the view at the top was worth it.
  • Extreme measures were taken to ensure everyone's safety during the storm.

Usage notes

Used to describe something that is much more than normal or average. It's often used in contexts like sports, weather, or emotions. Avoid in overly casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'extreme sports'—activities that are really intense or risky.

Collocations

  • be
  • appear
  • seem
  • particularly
  • really
  • very
  • at its most extreme
  • be
  • appear
  • seem
  • particularly
  • really
  • very
  • at its most extreme

Synonyms

  • intense
  • severe
  • extreme case
  • radical
  • drastic

Antonyms

  • mild
  • moderate
  • ordinary

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'extremely' which is an adverb.
  • Using 'extreme' when referring to a moderate situation.
  • Incorrectly applying it to describe everyday situations.