Radical (en. Radical)

/raˈðikal/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
Chemical element that acts as an ion or group of atoms in a reaction.
The methyl radical is important in organic chemistry.
El radical metilo es importante en la química orgánica.
A basic word or root from which other words are formed.
The radical 'writ-' is found in the words 'write' and 'written'.
El radical 'escrib-' se encuentra en las palabras 'escribir' y 'escrito'.
adjective
That is fundamental or essential.
We need a radical change in our policies.
Necesitamos un cambio radical en nuestras políticas.
That adopts extreme or unconventional viewpoints.
He is a radical thinker on social issues.
Es un pensador radical en cuestiones sociales.

Etymology

From Latin 'radicalis', meaning 'relating to the root'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

radical change
Total or drastic transformation of something.
cambio radical
in radical terms
In an extreme or unconventional manner.
en términos radicales
radical from the root
That affects fundamental aspects of a situation.
radical desde la raíz

Related Words

root
Fundamental part of a plant, which also refers to the essence in other contexts.
raíz
radicalism
Doctrine or ideology that advocates for profound changes in social or political structure.
radicalismo
radicality
Quality of being radical; extreme essence of something.
radicalidad

Slang Meanings

Alternative or anarchic lifestyle.
That group lives a radical lifestyle.
Ese grupo lleva un estilo de vida radical.
A person who is against established norms.
He is a radical who questions everything.
Es un radical que cuestiona todo.