severe
adj.-
1 very bad or intense (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediateused to describe something very bad, serious, or painful, like an injury or a storm.
denoting something very great or intense in a negative or harmful way.
ExampleThe area suffered severe damage after the hurricane hit the coast.
ExampleThe patient was admitted with severe abdominal pain that had not responded to over-the-counter medication.
UsageOften collocates with 'damage', 'pain', 'weather', or 'shortage'.
-
2 strict or harsh (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediatevery strict or demanding, especially when punishing someone or making rules.
stern or strict in manner, discipline, or judgement.
ExampleThe judge gave a severe warning to the lawyers for their behavior.
ExampleThe headteacher was known for her severe discipline, rarely allowing even the smallest infraction to go unpunished.
UsageCommonly used to describe people, punishments, or criticisms.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
-
3 plain or austere (adj.) C1 Advanced Formalvery simple and plain, without any decoration or extra details.
unadorned or austere in style or appearance.
ExampleShe wore a severe black dress with no jewelry to the meeting.
ExampleThe building's severe concrete facade reflected the minimalist architectural trends of the late twentieth century.
Teacher's tipIn a fashion or architectural context, this suggests a lack of friendliness or warmth due to extreme simplicity.
From Middle French, from Latin severus (“severe, serious, grave in demeanor”).