Part of Speech

The word "radical" functions as both an adjective and a noun in the Spanish language.

Phonetic Transcription

/radiˈkal/

Translation Options into English

• Radical (as an adjective: fundamental, extreme)
• Radical (as a noun: extremist, fundamentalist)

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, "radical" refers to something that is fundamental, essential, or far-reaching in nature. It can describe a person who advocates for extreme change in political or social ideologies. The term is commonly used in various contexts such as politics, medicine, and chemistry.

Frequency of use: - "Radical" is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, though it may appear more often in written forms, particularly in academic, political, and literary discussions.

Example Sentences

1. Los cambios radicales son necesarios para lograr una verdadera igualdad.

2. Radical changes are necessary to achieve true equality.

3. La protesta fue organizada por un grupo radical que busca reformas profundas.

4. The protest was organized by a radical group seeking deep reforms.

5. En medicina, un tratamiento radical puede ser la única opción para curar la enfermedad.

6. In medicine, a radical treatment may be the only option to cure the disease.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "radical" is often part of several idiomatic expressions, emphasizing strong views or actions.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. Tomar medidas radicales.
2. To take radical measures.
3. El gobierno decidió tomar medidas radicales para enfrentar la crisis económica.

4. The government decided to take radical measures to face the economic crisis.

5. Cambio radical.

6. Radical change.
7. El equipo necesita un cambio radical si quiere ganar el campeonato.

8. The team needs a radical change if it wants to win the championship.

9. Pensamiento radical.

10. Radical thinking.
11. El pensamiento radical puede llevar a soluciones innovadoras pero también riesgosas.

12. Radical thinking can lead to innovative but also risky solutions.

13. Actitud radical.

14. Radical attitude.
15. Su actitud radical ha provocado divisiones en la comunidad.
16. His radical attitude has caused divisions in the community.

Etymology

The word "radical" comes from the Latin "radicalis," which means "of or belonging to a root." The root word "radix" translates to "root." The term has evolved to imply fundamental changes, deeply rooted beliefs, or concepts that support significant transformations.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Fundamental - Extremista (when referring to a person)

Antonyms: - Moderado (moderate) - Conservador (conservative)