root-and-branch

adjective

1. on a large scale or without discrimination; wholesale

   root-and-branch reforms

adverb

1. entirely; completely; utterly

   Brazil needs reform root and branch

Idioms and Phrases

Utterly, completely, as in The company has been transformed root and branch by the new management. Alluding to both the underground and aboveground parts of a tree, this idiom was first recorded in 1640.

Example Sentences

The CCRC's senior leadership, starting with the CEO, must also resign to pave the way for root-and-branch reform.

From BBC

The government has set up an Independent Water Commission to lead a "root-and-branch" review into the industry.

From BBC

So, on that basis, wide-ranging legislation on root-and-branch reform of the Lords would be non-starter as a priority - as it would get bogged down quickly and deprive other measures of parliamentary time.

From BBC

She added: "Despite inquiry after inquiry, apology after apology and a slew of litigation, neither the NHS or the government appear willing to tackle the real issue - a root-and-branch rethink of what young mothers and families want at one of the most stressful points in their lives. A statutory public inquiry would hopefully secure this once and for all."

From BBC

Elsewhere at the conference, Sir Ed said his party would seek "root-and-branch" reform of the UK's post-Brexit relationship with the EU rather than "tinkering around the edges" of the existing deal.

From BBC