radically unlike

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "radically unlike" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two things that are fundamentally different from each other in a significant way. Example: "The two cultures are radically unlike, with distinct traditions and values that set them apart."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

It is very unlikely, then, to use a method of judging radically unlike those of our actual neighbors, or perceive, let alone correct for, a systematic bias in the sentiments of our society.

SEP

Columnists also attract a crowd radically unlike the audience that sticks to the news pages.

The New York Times

This is radically unlike the way the human brain is designed to hear.

The Guardian - Film

On the one hand, Einstein is the very icon of the genius, someone whose innate intelligence made him radically unlike the masses.

The Guardian - Books

(Many of us obsess about Washington but live in states and cities whose values and politics are radically unlike those of the new bosses).

The New Yorker

London, Paris, New York, and Rome — whose political organizations and histories are radically unlike, and which live under regimes with decidedly different attitudes toward the state and toward enterprise — have followed an eerily similar arc during the past twenty-five years.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Unlike the radically chic New York feminists, she spoke for the mainstream: the women of Peoria, women like her mother!

The New York Times - Books

But that means the account makes truthlikeness, unlike truth, radically language-relative.

SEP

Unlike many radically new cars, the Equinox does not leave us wondering who will buy it.

Forbes

But, since Tim* is a brain in a vat, he is, unlike Tim, radically deceived about his actual situation.

SEP

"Yet the U.K. system is being radically overhauled on a scale and pace unlike anything ever attempted in modern times.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "radically unlike", ensure that the context provides sufficient evidence or examples to justify the strong degree of dissimilarity being asserted.

Common error

Avoid using "radically unlike" when the differences are superficial or minor. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility. Instead, opt for milder terms if the situation warrants it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "radically unlike" functions as an adjective phrase that intensifies the dissimilarity between two or more entities. As suggested by Ludwig, it describes something as being fundamentally different. It modifies a noun or noun phrase to emphasize the extent and nature of the difference.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "radically unlike" is a grammatically sound and effective way to express a significant dissimilarity between two or more things. As confirmed by Ludwig, it emphasizes a fundamental difference rather than a superficial one. It finds common usage in scientific, journalistic, and encyclopedic contexts, maintaining a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure that the context supports the strong level of dissimilarity being asserted to maintain credibility and impact. Consider alternatives like "fundamentally dissimilar" or "completely different" to fine-tune the nuance of your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely dissimilar

Emphasizes the total lack of similarity, implying no shared characteristics.

entirely different

This implies a complete divergence in all aspects.

fundamentally dissimilar

This phrase highlights that the difference lies in the core aspects or foundations of the items being compared.

substantially different

This phrase indicates a considerable degree of difference, focusing on the extent of the dissimilarity.

vastly different

Highlights the great extent or degree of difference.

qualitatively different

Emphasizes that the difference is in the nature or character, rather than just the degree.

markedly distinct

Suggests that the differences are easily noticeable and significant.

distinctly contrasting

Focuses on the opposition or contrast, indicating clear and noticeable differences.

poles apart

This idiom vividly illustrates the extreme contrast or opposition between two things.

worlds apart

Another idiom that conveys a sense of significant difference in experience, values, or nature.

FAQs

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

Use "radically unlike" to describe two things that are fundamentally and significantly different. For instance, "Their political views are "radically unlike", leading to frequent disagreements".

What are some alternatives to "radically unlike"?

Alternatives include "fundamentally dissimilar", "completely different", or "markedly distinct". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "radically unlike" in formal writing?

Yes, "radically unlike" is suitable for formal writing when you need to emphasize a significant and fundamental difference. However, ensure the context supports such a strong claim.

What's the difference between "radically unlike" and "very different"?

"Radically unlike" suggests a deeper, more fundamental level of difference than "very different". "Very different" simply indicates a high degree of dissimilarity, while "radically unlike" implies a difference in core nature or essence.