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How to Say "drastic" in Spanish

English → Spanish

dramático

adjectiveB1general
Use 'dramático' when describing a change that is sudden, exaggerated, or overly emotional, often implying a strong, sometimes negative, impact.

Examples

No seas tan dramático, solo es un pequeño corte.

Don't be so dramatic, it's just a small cut.

radical

/rah-dee-KAHL//raðiˈkal/

adjectiveB1general
Choose 'radical' when referring to a fundamental, deep-seated, or thorough change that addresses the root of a problem or situation.
A vibrant landscape split down the middle: one side is a dry, gray desert and the other side is a lush, green rainforest.

Examples

Necesitamos un cambio radical en nuestra estrategia.

We need a radical change in our strategy.

Fue una decisión radical, pero necesaria.

It was a drastic decision, but a necessary one.

One Size Fits All

This word doesn't change based on gender. You can use it with both 'masculine' and 'feminine' things without changing the ending: 'un cambio radical' or 'una idea radical'.

Avoid 'Radicala'

Mistake: “una decisión radicala”

Correction: una decisión radical

violento

bee-oh-LEHN-toh/bjoˈlento/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'violento' specifically when describing a change that is forceful, intense, or aggressive, often associated with natural phenomena or strong physical actions.
A storybook illustration of a person's face showing extreme distress or intense emotion, surrounded by swirling red and orange colors.

Examples

Tuvimos que parar el coche por el viento violento.

We had to stop the car because of the fierce/intense wind.

Sufrió un dolor de cabeza violento después del accidente.

He suffered a severe headache after the accident.

La reacción del mercado fue violenta tras el anuncio.

The market's reaction was drastic/intense after the announcement.

Describing Force

When used for things like weather or physical sensations, 'violento' means 'very strong' or 'extreme,' emphasizing the power or suddenness of the event.

Dramático vs. Radical

Learners often confuse 'dramático' and 'radical'. Remember that 'dramático' leans towards an exaggerated or overly emotional impact, while 'radical' implies a more fundamental and thorough change. Use 'violento' only for forceful, intense changes.

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