# severe

/səˈvɪɹ/ (US) · /sɪvˈiə/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/severe
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. very bad or intense

adjective · CEFR B2

used to describe something very bad, serious, or painful, like an injury or a storm.

For teachers: denoting something very great or intense in a negative or harmful way.

- The area suffered severe damage after the hurricane hit the coast.
- The patient was admitted with severe abdominal pain that had not responded to over-the-counter medication.

Usage: Often collocates with 'damage', 'pain', 'weather', or 'shortage'.

### 2. strict or harsh

adjective · CEFR B2

very strict or demanding, especially when punishing someone or making rules.

For teachers: stern or strict in manner, discipline, or judgement.

- The judge gave a severe warning to the lawyers for their behavior.
- The headteacher was known for her severe discipline, rarely allowing even the smallest infraction to go unpunished.

Usage: Commonly used to describe people, punishments, or criticisms.

### 3. plain or austere

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

very simple and plain, without any decoration or extra details.

For teachers: unadorned or austere in style or appearance.

- She wore a severe black dress with no jewelry to the meeting.
- The building's severe concrete facade reflected the minimalist architectural trends of the late twentieth century.

Teaching tip: In a fashion or architectural context, this suggests a lack of friendliness or warmth due to extreme simplicity.

## Examples

- The city is preparing for a severe winter storm.
- The patient suffered a severe allergic reaction and required immediate medical attention at the local hospital.
- While the initial economic downturn was expected, the severe austerity measures introduced by the government led to widespread public dissatisfaction and prolonged social unrest.

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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.