Serious

/ˈsɪə̯.ɹi.əs/ · adjective

Meaning

Without humor or expression of happiness; grave in manner or disposition..

Definitions by Sense

1. Without humor or expression of happiness; grave in manner or disposition.
2. Important; weighty; not insignificant.
3. Really intending what is said (or planned, etc); in earnest; not jocular or deceiving.
4. (of a relationship) Committed.
5. (colloquial or dialect) seriously, in a serious manner (most often heard in take or mean serious)

Example Sentences

deadly serious

It was a surprise to see the captain, who had always seemed so serious, laugh so heartily.

This is a serious problem. We'll need our best experts.

After all these years, we're finally getting serious attention.

He says he wants to buy the team, but is he serious?

The only time I walk out on singin' is when there's muckin' about and youse don't take it serious.

Synonyms for serious

Antonyms for serious

Related Words

Word Forms

• more serious
• most serious

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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