Synonyms of serious

How is the word serious different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of serious are earnest, grave, sedate, sober, solemn, and staid. While all these words mean "not light or frivolous," serious implies a concern for what really matters.

In what contexts can earnest take the place of serious?

Although the words earnest and serious have much in common, earnest suggests sincerity or often zealousness of purpose.

When would grave be a good substitute for serious?

While in some cases nearly identical to serious, grave implies both seriousness and dignity in expression or attitude.

When is it sensible to use sedate instead of serious?

While the synonyms sedate and serious are close in meaning, sedate implies a composed and decorous seriousness.

Where would sober be a reasonable alternative to serious?

The words sober and serious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sober stresses seriousness of purpose and absence of levity or frivolity.

When might solemn be a better fit than serious?

The synonyms solemn and serious are sometimes interchangeable, but solemn suggests an impressive gravity utterly free from levity.

When is staid a more appropriate choice than serious?

In some situations, the words staid and serious are roughly equivalent. However, staid suggests a settled, accustomed sedateness and prim self-restraint.

Examples of serious in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web And that’s a serious issue for millions of Galaxy users. — Zak Doffman, Forbes, 17 Aug. 2024 But a lack of new housing and the tripling of foreign student numbers in the past decade have contributed to a serious shortfall in student accommodation. — Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune Europe, 17 Aug. 2024 Both of these laundry room appliances use up energy while plugged in and the dryer in particular can be a serious fire hazard. — Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Aug. 2024 President Joe Biden’s appalling debate performance had cast serious doubt on his ability to beat his Republican opponent, former President Donald Trump. — Francesca Chambers, USA TODAY, 17 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for serious

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'serious.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.