drastic measure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drastic measure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a significant or extreme action taken to address a problem or situation. Example: "In response to the escalating crisis, the government decided to implement a drastic measure to restore order."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

A drastic measure?

The New York Times

It is a drastic measure.

Independent

But that was a drastic measure.

The New York Times

"We needed to embark on a drastic measure".

The New York Times

On the other hand, why is such a drastic measure called for?

The New York Times

Terminating a pension plan is a drastic measure that requires approval of the bankruptcy court.

The New York Times

So clearly you need some drastic measure that will get you noticed afresh.

The Guardian - Opinion

I had a layman's intuition that the trouble did not require such a drastic measure.

The New York Times

They have since taken the drastic measure of raising the entire property by a metre.

The Guardian

"Layoffs are a drastic measure of last resort," Mr. Policano said.

The New York Times

Mr. Hammond said he knew he had to do what for him was a drastic measure.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "drastic measure" with clear explanations of the rationale behind the action. Transparency helps to mitigate potential concerns or opposition.

Common error

Avoid labeling every significant action as a "drastic measure". Overuse dilutes the impact and can make your writing seem sensationalist. Reserve the phrase for situations that genuinely involve extreme interventions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drastic measure" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples show its use in describing extreme actions taken in response to various problems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "drastic measure" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe extreme or severe actions taken in response to a problem. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and general informational settings. While it signals a significant intervention, overuse can dilute its impact; therefore, it's best reserved for situations genuinely warranting such a description. Related phrases include "extreme step" and "radical action", offering similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. When considering "drastic measure", ensure it accurately reflects the situation's severity and potential consequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Extreme step

Emphasizes the extremity of the action, focusing on its departure from the norm.

Radical action

Highlights the fundamental and far-reaching nature of the action.

Desperate remedy

Suggests the action is taken out of desperation, implying a difficult situation.

Last resort

Indicates the action is only taken after all other options have been exhausted.

Stringent action

Highlights the strict and forceful nature of the action.

Severe action

Emphasizes the seriousness and potential consequences of the action.

Aggressive move

Focuses on the proactive and assertive nature of the action.

Decisive act

Emphasizes the resoluteness and finality of the action.

Emergency plan

Implies the action is part of a plan implemented during an urgent situation.

Forceful intervention

Highlights the direct and powerful nature of the action, often implying external involvement.

FAQs

How can I use "drastic measure" in a sentence?

You can use "drastic measure" to describe a significant action taken to solve a problem. For example, "The company took the "drastic measure" of laying off employees to avoid bankruptcy".

What are some alternatives to "drastic measure"?

Alternatives to "drastic measure" include "extreme step", "radical action", or "last resort", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "drastic measure"?

Use "drastic measure" when referring to actions that are extreme, severe, and often implemented as a final option to address a critical situation. It implies that other less severe options have been considered or have failed.

What's the difference between "drastic measure" and "serious measure"?

"Drastic measure" implies a greater degree of extremity and potential impact than "serious measure". While both indicate a significant action, "drastic measure" suggests a more radical intervention.