Serious
'sɪəriəs
Definitions
2 meaningsCharacterized by deep thought or showing sincerity and solemnity; not joking or playful.
'sɪəriəs
Showing deep thought or sincerity; not joking or playful.
She looked serious when she heard the news.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend is telling you something super important, not silly or a joke. That's being serious! Like when you're talking to your parents about something that matters, or when a doctor gives you important advice. Being serious means you're not kidding around.
👶 For kids: When you're not playing around and you're being very thoughtful or important.
More Examples
The doctor gave a serious look when he examined the patient.
I had a serious talk with my boss about my career path.
How It's Used
"He was serious about his studies."
"They had a serious conversation about their future."
Causing anxiety or alarm; dangerous; important or critical.
'sɪəriəs
Threatening or causing danger or harm; critical.
The accident was serious, and the injured were rushed to hospital.
💡 Simply: Imagine something could be bad for you, or cause real trouble. Like a serious car accident, or a serious storm that could damage your house. When something is serious, it can cause a lot of problems or make you worried.
👶 For kids: When something is very bad or could hurt you.
More Examples
The country is facing a serious economic crisis.
The fire caused serious damage to the building.
How It's Used
"He has a serious illness."
"She faced serious charges."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
serious as a heart attack
Extremely serious.
"He was as serious as a heart attack when he talked about the situation."
take something seriously
Consider something to be important and worthy of attention.
"We need to take this problem seriously."
From Latin *serius*, meaning 'grave', 'solemn', or 'important'. The word's development reflects its association with seriousness, weight, and the absence of frivolity or levity.
Originally used to describe being grave or solemn in manner. Over time, the meaning expanded to include things that are important or dangerous.
Memory tip
Think of a person who is constantly furrowing their brow and speaking with a deep, thoughtful tone.