What does "radically" mean?

1. (completely or fundamentally) in a way that is very big and changes the most important parts of something. 2. (at the root) relating to the root or the very beginning of something.

How do you use "radically"?

typically modifies verbs related to change, such as 'alter', 'transform', or 'differ' rare in general conversation; primarily used in biological or anatomical descriptions

radically

adv.

US //ˈɹædɪkɫi// UK //ɹˈædɪkli// rad·i·cal·ly

1 completely or fundamentally (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

in a way that is very big and changes the most important parts of something.

in a fundamental or extreme manner that affects the essential nature of something.

Example

The new technology has radically changed the way we communicate with each other.

Example

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'
- slightly
- superficially
2 at the root (adv.)
C2 Proficiency Technical Science

relating to the root or the very beginning of something.

at the root or origin; used in technical or botanical contexts to describe where something starts.

Example

The plant's leaves grow radically from the base of the stem.

Example

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
- basally

Origin

From radical + -ly or radix (“root”) + -ally.