grievous

word

Definition

Very serious, severe, or causing great pain, suffering, or sadness. Often used to describe harm, mistakes, or losses.

Usage & Nuances

'Grievous' is formal and often used with nouns like 'grievous injury', 'grievous error', or 'grievous loss'. It's less common in everyday speech, and is stronger than words like 'serious' or 'severe'. Not used for small problems or minor sadness.

Example Sentences

The news brought grievous sadness to the family.

basic

The company regrets the grievous error made in the report.

natural

Losing her closest friend was a grievous blow.

natural

The community is still healing from that grievous loss.

natural

A grievous mistake can have lasting consequences.

basic

He suffered a grievous injury in the accident.

basic