Drastic
/ˈdræstɪk/
Definitions
Having a strong or violent effect; extreme.
/ˈdræstɪk/
Having a strong or violent effect; severe
The company took drastic steps to cut costs.
💡 Simply: Imagine your favorite video game gets a HUGE update that changes everything! That would be a drastic change, something really big and intense, like when you have to take a drastic step and sell your favorite toy!
👶 For kids: Something drastic is when something changes a lot or is very strong, like when you fall and get a big boo-boo. Ouch!
More Examples
There was a drastic decline in the number of animals.
The weather underwent a drastic shift.
How It's Used
"The government implemented drastic measures to combat the economic crisis."
"The doctor recommended drastic changes to his diet and lifestyle."
From Late Latin *drasticus*, from Greek *drastikos* ('effective, energetic'), from *drastērios* ('active'), from *dran* ('to act').
The word 'drastic' has been used since the 17th century to describe powerful medical treatments, later expanding to describe strong actions in other contexts.
Memory tip
Think of a dragon (drastic) breathing fire – a drastic change!