drastische

Drastische is the feminine singular attributive form of the German adjective drastisch and is also used in the plural before plural nouns. It describes something that is drastic, severe, or thorough in its effect. In usage, drastic is typically applied to changes, measures, or effects, for example in phrases like drastische Maßnahmen or drastische Veränderungen, where the emphasis is on the high degree or abruptness of the action or result. The adverb corresponding to this adjective is drastisch, which means “drastically.”

Etymology and origin: The adjective drastisch derives from the same root as its English equivalent drastic. It is believed to have entered German via Romance or Latin sources in the early modern period, with a sense linked to effectiveness and force. The word has since become a common descriptor in journalism, policy discussions, and academic prose to convey substantial or sweeping impact.

Usage and nuance: Drastische descriptors carry a stronger connotation than milder terms like erheblich or deutlich, signaling not only magnitude but often abruptness or a break with the past. While frequently neutral as a descriptive term, the word can carry evaluative undertones depending on context and tone. In scientific or economic writing, it may describe rapid changes; in political discourse, it may characterize policy steps or budgetary actions.

See also: drastisch, drastische Maßnahmen, drastische Einschnitte, drastic (in English) as a related term.