Word
radically
Phoneticsrad·i·cal·ly
US/ˈɹædɪkɫi/
UK/ɹˈædɪkli/
Adverb of degree
Definitions
01completely or fundamentally
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adv. in a way that is very big and changes the most important parts of something.
adv. in a fundamental or extreme manner that affects the essential nature of something.
“The new technology has radically changed the way we communicate with each other.”
“The landscape of the industry was radically altered by the introduction of the new regulations, forcing many smaller firms to merge.”
Usage
typically modifies verbs related to change, such as 'alter', 'transform', or 'differ'
Synonyms
Antonyms
02at the root
C2 · Proficiency Science Technical
adv. relating to the root or the very beginning of something.
adv. at the root or origin; used in technical or botanical contexts to describe where something starts.
“The plant's leaves grow radically from the base of the stem.”
“In certain botanical species, the foliage emerges radically, creating a dense cluster at the soil level rather than along a central stalk.”
Usage
rare in general conversation; primarily used in biological or anatomical descriptions
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “radically” in context.
Verb
01. radically change
“The new government policies will radically change the way the healthcare system operates.”
adv + verb
02. radically different
Real-World Examples
“But Louise has her own deep-rooted connection with the place, and has discovered new information about Sunrise’s local hero that casts his story in a radically different light.” “The search for exoplanets is radically expanding our understanding of the cosmos.” Etymology
From radical + -ly or radix (“root”) + -ally.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/radically