seriousness
n. uncountable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈsɪɹiəsnəs// UK //sˈiəɹɪəsnəs// se·ri·ous·ness
n. the quality of being important or not funny. You use this to describe a situation that needs careful attention or a person who does not joke much.
n. the quality of being grave, solemn, or significant in nature. Refers to both a person's temperament and the critical importance of a situation.
The doctor spoke with great seriousness about the test results.
The seriousness of the climate crisis requires immediate action from governments around the world.
While the play begins with lighthearted banter, the underlying seriousness of its political themes becomes apparent by the end of the first act.
From serious + -ness.
Usage
Uncountable in its abstract sense; often follows the preposition 'with' to describe how someone speaks or acts.