drastic measures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drastic measures" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a particular action that is considered extreme and necessary. For example: "The government implemented drastic measures to contain the spread of the virus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Drastic measures were necessary.

The Economist

Drastic measures were required.

The New Yorker

Drastic measures are required".

The New York Times

Drastic measures are called for.

The Guardian - Travel

Others choose less drastic measures.

The Guardian

Others have taken more drastic measures.

The New York Times

Many politicians are demanding more drastic measures.

The Economist

Criticise us for using drastic measures?

Independent

Drastic times call for drastic measures.

Independent

Drastic measures must, and will, be taken.

The New York Times

But more drastic measures are called for.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "drastic measures", ensure the context clearly justifies the extremity of the actions. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "drastic measures" when less extreme solutions are available or appropriate. Using milder alternatives might be better suited if there is no real emergency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drastic measures" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. It describes actions that are extreme, severe, or radical, often taken as a last resort to address a critical situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "drastic measures" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe extreme actions taken to resolve critical situations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its meaning is consistently applied across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While alternatives exist, "drastic measures" effectively conveys urgency and seriousness. When using the phrase, ensure the context justifies the extremity of the actions and avoid overuse. When deciding to use this phrase remember that less extreme alternatives may be better suited if there is no real emergency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

radical actions

This emphasizes the fundamental or extreme nature of the actions taken.

extreme steps

This highlights the intensity and departure from ordinary procedures.

severe actions

This stresses the harshness or gravity of the measures implemented.

rigorous steps

This emphasizes the thoroughness and strictness of the actions.

forceful actions

This indicates the strength and determination behind the measures.

decisive steps

This underscores the firm and resolute nature of the measures.

intense measures

This suggests a high degree of effort or concentration in the actions.

desperate measures

This implies a sense of urgency and a willingness to try anything to solve a problem.

stringent actions

This emphasizes the strict and uncompromising nature of the measures.

far-reaching actions

This highlights the broad impact and scope of the measures.

FAQs

How to use "drastic measures" in a sentence?

You can use "drastic measures" to describe actions that are extreme and often a last resort. For example: "The company implemented "drastic measures" to avoid bankruptcy."

What can I say instead of "drastic measures"?

You can use alternatives like "radical actions", "extreme steps", or "severe actions" depending on the context.

When are "drastic measures" necessary?

"Drastic measures" are typically necessary when facing critical or emergency situations where standard approaches have failed or are insufficient to resolve the problem.

What are some examples of "drastic measures"?

Examples include government-imposed lockdowns during a pandemic, a company-wide restructuring to avoid insolvency, or emergency surgery to save a life.