take extreme steps

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take extreme steps" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to take drastic or severe actions or measures. Example: In order to solve the financial crisis, the government may have to take extreme steps such as implementing harsh budget cuts and raising taxes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"Otherwise they take extreme steps".

The New York Times

Riverkeeper said that by its calculations, the city would have to take extreme steps to conserve water.

The New York Times

We deride egomaniacs and dictators who take extreme steps to imprint their own self-image on everyone's minds, yet most of us subconsciously assume the same total respect from those around us.

The New York Times

In all, there is a balance sought: First, if possible, make things end peacefully, with no one hurt, but also be prepared to take extreme steps, like firing a weapon.

The New York Times

But consumers face higher risks of being misled at a time when the intense demand for bitcoin has prompted many retail investors to take extreme steps to gain exposure to the currency, such as taking out a bigger mortgage.

The Washington Post

During the crisis over the Townshend duties (1767 70), the import taxes on previously duty-free products proposed by Cabinet Minister Charles Townshend, Adams was unable to persuade the Massachusetts colonists to take extreme steps, partly because of the moderating influence of Otis.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

I have self-excluded myself, taken extreme steps but I still have ended up having a meltdown," he said.

The Guardian

As Mary Williams Walsh wrote last week in The Times, some states have taken extreme steps to balance their budgets in the face of declining revenue and rising bills.

The New York Times

The country's democracy is also far younger than Japan's, which, perversely, means citizens there are less likely to be alarmed if the government takes extreme steps in an emergency.

The New York Times - Sports

His letter left no doubt that he was aware of the peril from hostile foreign intelligence agencies, and that he had taken extreme steps to keep his material safe.

The Guardian

Republicans, many of whom opposed the creation of the agency, have complained for years that during the Obama administration the bureau was too aggressive, taking extreme steps to go after companies and demanding exorbitant financial penalties.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take extreme steps", ensure the context clearly justifies the severity of the actions being described. The phrase implies a situation where less drastic measures have been exhausted or are insufficient.

Common error

Avoid using "take extreme steps" when describing ordinary actions or decisions. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios involving significant consequences or unusual circumstances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take extreme steps" functions as a verb phrase, where "take" is the main verb and "extreme steps" is the direct object. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in expressing significant actions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take extreme steps" is used to describe the implementation of severe or drastic measures, especially when facing challenging circumstances. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically sound. Although the phrase is considered uncommon in terms of frequency, it often appears in news and media, reflecting situations where significant actions are warranted. When using the phrase, ensure that the context justifies such intense measures and consider related phrases, such as "resort to drastic measures" or "adopt radical solutions", to provide the most accurate description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

institute extreme measures

Uses a different verb but keeps the adjective.

undertake extraordinary measures

Underscores the exceptional and unusual nature of the actions.

resort to drastic measures

Emphasizes the severity and urgency implied in the actions taken.

take decisive action

Implies swift and impactful intervention.

adopt radical solutions

Focuses on the innovative or unconventional nature of the solutions.

initiate aggressive strategies

Stresses the proactive and forceful nature of the approach.

apply forceful tactics

Focuses on the strength and intensity of the methods employed.

implement severe penalties

Highlights the punitive aspect of the actions taken.

enforce stringent regulations

Concentrates on the strictness and rigor of the rules being applied.

employ rigorous methods

Highlights the thoroughness and precision of the techniques used.

FAQs

What does "take extreme steps" mean?

The phrase "take extreme steps" means to undertake drastic or severe actions, often in response to a critical situation or when other methods have failed.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "take extreme steps"?

It's appropriate when describing situations that require significant and forceful actions, usually when less severe measures are inadequate. Consider alternatives like "resort to drastic measures" if the situation does not warrant such strong language.

What are some alternatives to "take extreme steps"?

Alternatives include "adopt radical solutions", "implement severe penalties", or "take decisive action", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "take extreme steps"?

Yes, the phrase "take extreme steps" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English.