Radikaalsemad

Radikaalsemad is an Estonian comparative adjective meaning “more radical.” It is used to describe something that exhibits a greater degree of radicalism than another thing, such as methods, ideas, or actions. The word is formed from radikaalne (radical) with the comparative and plural ending -mad, making it suitable for referring to multiple items: radikaalsemad meetodid (more radical methods), radikaalsemad vaated (more radical views).

The term is used across domains including politics, social movements, philosophy, art, and science. It can describe plans, proposals, or positions that aim for fundamental or drastic change, often contrasting with more moderate forms. Examples include radikaalsemad plaanid, radikaalsemad doktriinid, or radikaalsemad protestiliikumised.

Connotations of radikaalsemad depend on context and perspective. While it is a descriptive grammatical form, it frequently carries evaluative overtones, signaling approval or disapproval of the degree of change involved. In neutral usage, it simply marks a higher level of radicality; in political or public discourse, it may be used pejoratively to criticize extreme or impractical approaches.

Etymology and related forms: radikaalsemad derives from radikaalne (radical), a loanword common in Estonian from other European languages, with cognates in Finnish and Swedish. Related terms include radikaalne (radical) and äärmuslik (extremist), which can be used to discuss extremes in ideological or methodological terms.