Drastic times call for drastic measures

Meaning

The idiom "drastic times call for drastic measures" means that extreme situations require extreme actions to be taken. It suggests that when things are very difficult, it may be necessary to do something that would normally be considered unacceptable or too harsh.

Usage

• In the current pandemic situation, drastic measures such as lockdowns and travel bans have been implemented to control the spread of the virus.
• After years of neglecting his health, John realized that drastic times called for drastic measures and started exercising regularly and eating healthily.
• The company faced financial difficulties due to the global economic crisis, prompting them to take drastic measures such as downsizing and outsourcing.
• In order to save his failing business, John had to make drastic changes to his products and marketing strategies.
• When her friend's car broke down on a highway, she took drastic measures by using her own phone to call for help and offer assistance to her friend.

Roots and History

The idiom "drastic times call for drastic measures" has been in use since the 17th century. The earliest known use of this phrase was in a collection of proverbs in 1670, where it was written as "Extreme times call for extreme methods." Over time, the phrase evolved to its current form and became more commonly used in contemporary language.

Synonyms in English

• Extreme measures need extreme times
• Severe situations require severe actions
• Tough times require tougher solutions
• Crisis calls for crisis measures
• Difficult times call for drastic action

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "Les temps extrêmes appellent des mesures extrêmes"
• Spanish: "Las circunstancias difíciles requieren medidas extremas"
• German: "Schwere Zeiten fordern schwere Maßnahmen"
• Italian: "Tempi difficili richiedono azioni drastiche"
• Portuguese: "Tempos difíceis exigem medidas dramáticas"

Similar Idioms

• till doomsday

• wag the dog

• dog eat dog