Seriously: meaning, definitions and examples

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seriously

 

[หˆsษชษ™rษชษ™sli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a serious or solemn manner

Seriously is an adverb that means in a serious or solemn manner. It is used to emphasize the sincerity or truth of a statement. It can also indicate that something is important or significant. The word seriously is often used in conversations to convey a sense of urgency or gravity.

Synonyms

earnestly, gravely, sincerely, solemnly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
seriously

Used to emphasize the importance or urgency of something, often when discussing issues that require serious consideration.

  • We need to talk seriously about your future.
  • Seriously, I think you're making a mistake.
earnestly

Used to describe doing something with sincere and intense conviction, often linked to efforts, intentions, or emotions.

  • She spoke earnestly about her dreams and goals.
  • He earnestly tried to convince them to stay.
sincerely

Used to express honesty and genuine feelings, often in personal communication or when expressing gratitude or apologies.

  • I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.
  • She sincerely thanked everyone for their support.
gravely

Used to describe a manner that is serious and solemn, often implying that the matter is sad or concerning.

  • The doctor spoke gravely about the patient's condition.
  • He gravely announced the news to the family.
solemnly

Used to describe an action or speech that is performed with deep seriousness and formality, often during official or ceremonial occasions.

  • He solemnly swore an oath to serve his country.
  • The judge looked at the defendant solemnly.

Examples of usage

  • He looked at her seriously, knowing the importance of the situation.
  • She seriously considered his proposal before making a decision.
  • If you want to succeed, you need to take your work seriously.
  • Don't take it lightly, this is a seriously dangerous situation.
  • I seriously doubt that he will be able to finish the project on time.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'seriously' comes from the Latin 'serius', meaning 'grave' or 'serious'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, evolving from the idea of being serious in thought or action.
  • The suffix '-ly' helps convert the adjective 'serious' into an adverb, indicating manner.

Language Usage

  • 'Seriously' is often used to emphasize the importance or truth of a statement, helping to convey urgency.
  • In conversations, adding 'seriously' can signal that the speaker is shifting from light-heartedness to a more sincere tone.
  • It can also express disbelief or sarcasm, especially in the phrase 'Are you serious?'

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'seriously?' has become a popular meme, often used in humorous contexts to express incredulity.
  • In many movies, characters often declare 'Seriously' to underline the gravity of the situation in a dramatic way.
  • The use of 'seriously' in TV shows often signifies a turning point where drama intensifies.

Psychology

  • Using 'seriously' can indicate the weight of emotions behind a message, suggesting a deeper level of concern.
  • People tend to respond differently when addressed seriously, usually more thoughtfully and cautiously.
  • In a study of communication, emphasizing seriousness in dialogue can lead to heightened understanding among participants.

Literature

  • In literature, authors might use 'seriously' to pivot from a humorous scene to a serious revelation, impacting the story's tone.
  • The use of the word often serves as a cue to readers, alerting them to pay attention to the significance of the dialogue.
  • Famous authors like Charles Dickens and Jane Austen would employ 'seriously' to create memorable and impactful character moments.

Translations

Translations of the word "seriously" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น seriamente

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค—เค‚เคญเฅ€เคฐเคคเคพ เคธเฅ‡

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช ernsthaft

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ serius

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ัะตั€ะนะพะทะฝะพ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ powaลผnie

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ็œŸๅ‰ฃใซ (shinken ni)

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท sรฉrieusement

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ seriamente

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท ciddi olarak

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ง„์ง€ํ•˜๊ฒŒ (jinjihage)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุจุฌุฏูŠุฉ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ vรกลพnฤ›

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ vรกลพne

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ่ฎค็œŸๅœฐ (rรจnzhฤ“n de)

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ resno

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ alvarlega

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ัˆั‹ะฝ ะผำ™ะฝั–ะฝะดะต

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒกแƒ”แƒ แƒ˜แƒแƒ–แƒฃแƒšแƒแƒ“ (seriozulad)

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ciddi ลŸษ™kildษ™

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ seriamente

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,574, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.