What does radicalness mean?
Radicalness is a noun meaning the quality of being radical: markedly unconventional, extreme, or far-reaching. It is especially used to describe political or social views that reject established institutions or seek fundamental change, as in a discussion of a movement’s radicalness. The word can also describe the fundamental character of an idea, transformation, or proposal, often with the implication that its implications are substantial and difficult to reverse. In general use, radicalness may suggest originality and courage, while in political contexts it can carry a more critical or alarmed tone. The related noun radicalism more commonly names a political doctrine or movement, whereas radicalness focuses on the quality or degree of something’s radical character. The word is formal and less frequent than either radical or radicalism.
nounThe quality or state of being radical, especially of holding views or pursuing change that departs sharply from established or traditional ideas. It can also refer more generally to the extent to which something is fundamental, extreme, or far-reaching.
- The quality of holding radical political, social, or intellectual views.
- The character of being fundamental, far-reaching, or extreme.
- The degree to which something departs from accepted or traditional approaches.
"Her radicalness challenged the assumptions of the entire committee."
"The radicalness of the proposal made it difficult to find a place of compromise."
"Critics questioned the radicalness of the redesign while supporters praised its originality."
The plural is possible but rarely needed, especially in abstract or political contexts.
"The two theories differ in their radicalnesses."
The word “radical” originally referred to a root: change something radically and you reach the root of the matter.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does radicalness come from?
Radicalness was formed in the 19th century from the adjective radical and the suffix -ness, which creates a noun expressing a state or quality. Radical itself comes through Latin from radix, meaning “root,” and originally referred to something pertaining to a root; by the 17th century, it had developed meanings involving fundamental change and later political extremism. Related English forms include radicalism, radicalize, and radicalization, all built on the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How radicalness is actually used
The word is formal and relatively uncommon. In political contexts it may suggest opposition to established institutions; in general contexts it can emphasize the thoroughness or foundational character of a change.
Easily confused with radicalness
Radicalism usually names a doctrine, movement, or political outlook, whereas radicalness more often describes the quality or degree of being radical.