What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
drastic
Example
The company had to take drastic measures to cut costs, including laying off employees. [drastic: adjective]
Example
The government's response to the crisis was drastic, imposing strict lockdown measures. [drastic: adjective]
sweeping
Example
The new policy represented a sweeping reform of the education system. [sweeping: adjective]
Example
The company implemented sweeping changes to its operations to improve efficiency. [sweeping: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Drastic and sweeping are both commonly used words in English, but drastic is more commonly used in situations where an immediate and extreme solution is needed, while sweeping is more commonly used to describe broader and more comprehensive changes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between drastic and sweeping?
Both drastic and sweeping are formal words that are appropriate for use in professional or academic contexts, but drastic may be perceived as more urgent or serious in tone than sweeping.
