a radical action

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a radical action" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is extreme or significantly different from the norm, often in a political or social context. Example: "The activists decided that a radical action was necessary to bring attention to the climate crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Only a clear 4-5 majority can carry out such a radical action.

Independent

Early on, we learn that these two have participated in a radical action that went terribly wrong.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is a most radical action and a signal of how severe the crisis of the banking system and non-bank shadow financial system is.

The New York Times

"B.T. is taking a more radical action in regard to its strategy," said Douglas Wight, an analyst with Commerzbank in London.

The New York Times

Here are three areas in which candour is vital, as a precursor to radical action.

The Guardian - Opinion

The email ends with a plea: "So radical action is required, really radical, we can't wait any more.

The Guardian - Business

Still, you could argue that the students and Mishima shared a commitment to radical action to achieve their ends, against what proved to be insurmountable odds.

The New Yorker

There's certainly a surge in radical action across North America: From the popularity of Bernie Sanders to teachers' strikes and protests, from students protesting gun legislation to Black Lives Matter, it feels like the time is ripe for a new era of unapologetic, progressive politics.

The Washington Post

The article therefore explores a third way between a programme of insurgent radical action and the more pragmatic consensus-based participation model practised in Malawi today.

Geoforum

He produced three quickly-made features by Joe Sarno, a pioneer of sexploitation films and today a cult figure for academia; and Robert Kramer's Ice (1970), a key work on radical action of the period.

The Guardian - Film

According to the historian Davor Marijan, this was a poor choice that gave the Ustaše an excuse to take radical action.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always define what area of the situation has a radical action applied (e.g., 'a radical action on new business investments').

Common error

Avoid using "a radical action" to describe minor adjustments or routine changes. This phrase carries a strong connotation of urgency and severity, and its overuse can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a radical action" functions as a noun phrase, where "radical" modifies "action". It describes a specific type of action characterized by its extreme or fundamental nature. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a radical action" is a valid and usable English phrase that describes an extreme or fundamental measure. As pointed out by Ludwig, it is often employed in contexts where significant change is required. While not exceptionally common, its appearance in authoritative sources like The Guardian, The New York Times, and academic institutions indicates its acceptance in both neutral and formal registers. To ensure proper usage, reserve "a radical action" for situations genuinely demanding an unconventional or drastic approach. Consider alternatives like "a drastic measure" or "a bold step" depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a drastic measure

Emphasizes the severity and potential impact of the action.

a bold step

Highlights the courage and risk involved in the action.

a decisive move

Focuses on the action's impact in resolving a situation.

an extreme intervention

Implies a forceful and potentially disruptive action taken to address a problem.

a revolutionary change

Suggests the action will cause a significant transformation.

a game-changing decision

Highlights the potential for the action to alter the course of events.

a transformative initiative

Emphasizes the action's ability to bring about fundamental change.

a groundbreaking approach

Suggests the action introduces a new and innovative way of doing things.

a decisive intervention

Highlights the resolution capability of the action.

a bold undertaking

It is mostly similar, but replaces the nuance of severity with the nuance of a big challenge to undertake.

FAQs

What does "a radical action" mean?

The phrase "a radical action" refers to an action that is extreme, fundamental, or significantly different from the norm. It often implies a major departure from established practices or policies.

When is it appropriate to use the term "a radical action"?

Use "a radical action" when describing a measure that is necessary to address a critical problem or bring about significant change. It's most appropriate when less drastic approaches have failed or are unlikely to succeed.

What are some alternatives to "a radical action"?

You can use alternatives like "a drastic measure", "a bold step", or "a decisive move" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

How does "a radical action" differ from "a significant change"?

"A significant change" implies a notable alteration, while "a radical action" suggests a more fundamental and potentially disruptive shift. A "radical action" is typically more extreme and transformative than a "significant change".