WordGarden.ioextreme
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɛkstrˈiːm/
US
- /ɛkˈstrim/
Meanings
Adjective
very great in degree, intensity, or severity
farthest from the center, middle, or usual position
far from moderate, especially in political or social views
More meaningsFewer meanings
involving high risk or intense physical challenge, especially in sports
Noun
the highest, lowest, or furthest degree or limit
Beyond the definition
"Extreme" describes something that is far outside the usual range. Think of temperatures like scorching heat or freezing cold. It is not just a lot of something; it is a level that pushes limits. You might hear it in phrases like extreme sports, such as skydiving or rock climbing, where the activity feels risky or intense. But it is not always positive; an extreme reaction to a small problem can mean someone is overreacting. The word often suggests danger, intensity, or a big move away from the ordinary. Think of an "extreme makeover": it is not a small change, but a dramatic transformation.
The word "extreme" describes something at the furthest limit or end of a range; it is far beyond what is normal, average, or typical. It suggests intensity, excess, and often a sense of drama or excitement.
You'll encounter "extreme" in many contexts. In weather, it refers to conditions like extreme heat waves, blizzards, or hurricanes. In sports, "extreme sports" (such as snowboarding, base jumping, or freediving) are those that carry a high degree of risk and require specialized skill.
But "extreme" is not limited to physical things. You can have an extreme opinion, meaning a very strong and unwavering belief. Someone might show extreme behavior, actions that are far outside what is expected or socially acceptable. An "extreme makeover" suggests a radical transformation in appearance or structure.
The word often carries the idea of pushing boundaries, challenging limits, and moving into territory that seems dangerous or unconventional. While it is sometimes used positively to describe thrilling experiences ("an extreme adventure"), it can also signal something negative: an extreme situation, an extreme reaction, or an extreme level of difficulty.
So, whether it describes weather patterns, athletic pursuits, personal beliefs, or dramatic changes, "extreme" always refers to a state far removed from the ordinary, a place where things are taken to their absolute limit.
Examples
- 1
Desert climate
The desert can be hard to live in because of the extreme heat during the day.
- 2
Emotional reaction
Her reaction seemed extreme, considering it was only a small mistake.
- 3
Public health
The government took extreme measures to stop the disease from spreading.
- 4
Poverty
Many families in the area are still living in extreme poverty.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Adventure sports
He enjoys extreme sports like rock climbing and white-water rafting.
- 6
Unusual case
This is an extreme case, but it shows what can happen when the system fails.
- 7
Opposing views
Their opinions were at opposite extremes, so the meeting went nowhere.
- Phraseat opposite extremes
as different as possible
- 8
Conflict avoidance
After the argument, she went to extremes to avoid seeing him.
- Phrasego to extremes
do something in a very strong or unusual way
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- extremenounadjective
Forms
- extremespluralnounadjective