expression, godan verb (-tsu)
strike at the root of an evil; eradicate the source of trouble
A formal, somewhat literary expression meaning to eliminate the fundamental cause of a problem or evil. Often used in discussions of policy, social issues, or moral failings.
汚職の禍根を絶つためには、制度の改革が必要だ。
To strike at the root of corruption, institutional reform is necessary.
He worked hard to eradicate the root of discrimination from society.