Sternly Meaning in English
word
ˈstɝnɫi
STURN-lee
stˈɜːnli
STURN-lee
Definition
In a serious, strict, or harsh way, showing disapproval or authority.
Usage & Nuances
Used to describe the tone of voice or facial expression when someone is giving strict instructions, warnings, or showing disapproval. Often appears with verbs like 'say', 'look', or 'reply'. More formal than 'firmly'; less harsh than 'harshly.'
Spanish: severamente - estrictamentePortuguese (BR): severamente - duramentePortuguese (PT): severamente - duramenteChinese (Simplified): 严厉地 - 严肃地Chinese (Traditional): 嚴厲地 - 嚴肅地Hindi: कठोरता से - सख्ती सेArabic: بصرامة - بشدةBengali: কঠোরভাবে - গম্ভীরভাবেRussian: строго - суровоJapanese: 厳しくVietnamese: nghiêm khắc - nghiêm nghịKorean: 엄하게 - 단호하게Turkish: sert bir şekilde - ciddi şekildeUrdu: سختی سے - سنجیدگی سےIndonesian: dengan tegas - dengan keras
Example Sentences
The teacher spoke sternly to the noisy students.
basic
He looked at me sternly when I lied.
basic
The mother spoke sternly to her child about the broken vase.
basic
“You must finish your homework,” she said sternly.
natural
He replied sternly that there would be consequences.
natural
My boss looked sternly around the room before speaking.
natural