# seriousness

/ˈsɪɹiəsnəs/ (US) · /sˈiəɹɪəsnəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/seriousness
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

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.

For teachers: the quality of being grave, solemn, or significant in nature. Refers to both a person's temperament and the critical importance of a situation.

## Examples

- 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.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable in its abstract sense; often follows the preposition 'with' to describe how someone speaks or acts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.