radically dissimilar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "radically dissimilar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two or more things that are fundamentally different from each other in a significant way. Example: "The two proposals were radically dissimilar, making it difficult to choose one over the other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Their political projects are radically dissimilar.

The Economist

Soviet-style economies left an inheritance of human and ecological devastation, while neo-liberal policies have had results that are not radically dissimilar in many countries.

The Guardian - Books

According to Descartes, a human being is a union of mind and body, two radically dissimilar substances that interact in the pineal gland.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But they are embarked on radically dissimilar political missions: Mr Clarke's party is escaping into the future; Lord Mandelson's is forlornly trying to turn back the clock.

The Economist

The original Twins was a well-received comedy directed by Ivan Reitman, in which Schwarzenegger and DeVito play the results of a genetics experiment that produces radically dissimilar twin brothers who grow up in entirely different enviroments.

The Guardian - Film

They force critics to rate radically dissimilar projects the epic, the dramedy, the sleek time-killer, the ambitious game-changer that doesn't quite cohere so that algorithms can crunch out a blandly universal must-see selection.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Here were two men, fraternal twins, a double-boy, physically dissimilar and with radically different personalities who lived for 64 years connected to each other at the chest by a 5 inch long band of muscle and cartilage which housed their single stomach.

Huffington Post

Here were two men, fraternal twins, a double-boy, physically dissimilar and with radically different and antagonistic personalities who lived for 64 years connected to each other at the chest by a five inch long band of muscle and cartilage which housed their single stomach.

Huffington Post

Not dissimilar?

The Guardian

They're obviously dissimilar.

The New York Times - Arts

Steve McPhail and Michael Brackenhofer are dissimilar men.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "radically dissimilar", ensure that the context clearly establishes what two or more things are being compared. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "radically dissimilar" when the differences are minor or subjective. The phrase implies a fundamental and significant divergence, so reserve it for situations where the contrast is substantial and easily demonstrable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "radically dissimilar" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to describe something as fundamentally different. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct. Examples show it describing projects, substances, and political missions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "radically dissimilar" is a grammatically sound adjective phrase used to emphasize fundamental differences between two or more things. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and readily usable in written English. While not overly common, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes what is being compared and that the differences are indeed significant. Alternatives like "completely different" or "fundamentally distinct" can offer similar meaning with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely different

Emphasizes a total lack of similarity, highlighting that the items being compared share no common traits.

fundamentally distinct

Focuses on the basic or essential differences between the subjects.

markedly divergent

Indicates a clear and noticeable deviation or difference.

entirely unlike

Stresses the absence of any resemblance between the items.

poles apart

Suggests that the items are at opposite extremes or ends of a spectrum.

widely contrasting

Highlights the significant differences in character or quality.

dissimilar in nature

Focuses on inherent differences in the kind or essence of the subjects.

bearing no resemblance

Emphasizes the complete lack of any visual or superficial likeness.

utterly disparate

Implies a complete and undeniable separation or dissimilarity.

worlds apart

Highlights a vast difference, often implying a difference in experience or circumstance.

FAQs

How can I use "radically dissimilar" in a sentence?

You can use "radically dissimilar" to describe two or more things that are fundamentally different from each other. For example, "The two approaches to solving the problem were "radically dissimilar", reflecting different underlying philosophies".

What are some alternatives to "radically dissimilar"?

Alternatives include phrases like "completely different", "fundamentally distinct", or "entirely unlike", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say something is "slightly radically dissimilar"?

No, using "slightly" with "radically dissimilar" creates a contradiction. "Radically" implies a fundamental or extreme difference, while "slightly" suggests a minor one. Instead, use phrases like "somewhat dissimilar" or "slightly different".

What's the difference between "dissimilar" and "radically dissimilar"?

"Dissimilar" simply means not similar. "Radically dissimilar" emphasizes that the differences are fundamental and significant, not just superficial. It implies a much stronger degree of divergence.