seriousness
word · lemma: serious
Definition
The quality of being serious, not joking or playing; also used to show how important or severe something is.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly formal or neutral. Common with 'the seriousness of the situation', 'seriousness of purpose', or 'with great seriousness'. Not used to describe people in casual conversation (use 'serious' instead). Distinct from 'severity', which often refers more to harshness or intensity.
Example Sentences
We must understand the seriousness of this problem.
basic
The doctor spoke with seriousness about my health.
basic
Her seriousness surprised everyone in the meeting.
basic
Don’t laugh—he said it with real seriousness.
natural
I underestimated the seriousness of her warning until it was too late.
natural
Sometimes a little humor is needed to balance all the seriousness at work.
natural