take extreme measures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take extreme measures" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation in which someone is willing to go to great lengths or do something drastic in order to solve a problem or achieve a goal. Example: In order to save their failing business, the owners decided to take extreme measures and cut their prices by 50%.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's going to take extreme measures".

The New Yorker

Some drivers take extreme measures to relieve ennui.

The New York Times

If you have a global catastrophe, you have to take extreme measures.

The Guardian - Business

"I believe democracy is so strong you don't need to take extreme measures," Mr. Samaras said.

The New York Times

Mr Yang, for instance, does not believe that the Chinese will take extreme measures.

The Economist

The self-described "fact vigilantes" take extreme measures to find out the truth, no matter how trivial.

The New Yorker

Most likely, the new rules would make it easier to take extreme measures like gassing the geese.

The New York Times

Although the Knicks could theoretically drop below the tax "apron" of $74 million, it would take extreme measures.

The New York Times - Sports

Airlines have been known to take extreme measures to reduce weight including carrying less water for the bathrooms.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

In response, the city is taking extreme measures.

The Washington Post

The majority-Republican legislature has taken extreme measures in the past decade to cut access to abortion.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take extreme measures", ensure the context clearly justifies the necessity and potential consequences of such actions. This adds credibility and weight to your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "take extreme measures" when milder actions would suffice. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing seem melodramatic or hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take extreme measures" functions as a verb phrase, where "take" is the main verb and "extreme measures" is the direct object. It describes the action of implementing drastic steps or actions. As noted by Ludwig, it's a correct and usable part of English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take extreme measures" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies the implementation of drastic or unconventional actions to address a critical situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as formal business settings, it conveys urgency and the necessity for significant intervention. While alternatives like ""resort to drastic steps"" or "employ extraordinary means" exist, the phrase remains a potent choice for emphasizing the severity of actions taken. Proper usage involves justifying the need for such measures within a clear and compelling context, avoiding overuse to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resort to drastic steps

Emphasizes the severity and urgency of the actions taken.

adopt radical solutions

Highlights the innovative and unconventional nature of the approach.

employ extraordinary means

Focuses on using resources or methods that are not typically available or considered.

implement severe actions

Underscores the strict and forceful nature of the measures.

enforce stringent regulations

Highlights the strict enforcement of rules to control a situation.

undertake extraordinary procedures

Emphasizes the formal and systematic implementation of unique processes.

initiate intense interventions

Highlights the forceful and proactive approach to resolving a problem.

move to desperate tactics

Indicates that the situation is dire and requires risky actions.

embrace aggressive strategies

Focuses on a proactive and forceful approach to achieve goals.

apply extraordinary methods

Highlights the application of unconventional techniques.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "take extreme measures" in a sentence?

To use "take extreme measures" effectively, ensure that the situation warrants such drastic action. Provide context that highlights the severity of the problem and why less drastic solutions are insufficient. For example: "Faced with plummeting sales, the company had to "resort to drastic steps", including layoffs and restructuring."

What are some alternatives to "take extreme measures" that I can use in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "adopt radical solutions", "employ extraordinary means", or "implement severe actions" to convey a similar meaning without sounding repetitive.

Is it appropriate to use "take extreme measures" in formal writing?

Yes, "take extreme measures" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when describing critical situations that require serious action. However, ensure the tone remains professional and the use is justified by the context.

What's the difference between "take extreme measures" and "take necessary steps"?

"Take necessary steps" implies following standard procedures or actions that are typically required in a situation. "Take extreme measures", on the other hand, suggests going beyond the usual actions and employing more drastic or unconventional methods to address a problem.