Sobering: meaning, definitions and examples

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sobering

 

[ ˈsoʊbərɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

serious situation

Sobering refers to something that makes one serious or more aware of the truth of a situation. It often relates to experiences or realizations that lead to a more thoughtful or reflective state of mind.

Synonyms

grim, serious, stern, thought-provoking

Examples of usage

  • The sobering news about climate change stirred many to action.
  • His sobering remarks made everyone reconsider their choices.
  • After the sobering experience of losing a friend, she changed her perspective on life.

Translations

Translations of the word "sobering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sóbrio

🇮🇳 सावधान करने वाला

🇩🇪 nüchtern

🇮🇩 menyadarkan

🇺🇦 п'яний

🇵🇱 trzeźwy

🇯🇵 冷静にさせる

🇫🇷 sobre

🇪🇸 sobrio

🇹🇷 sakinleştirici

🇰🇷 냉정한

🇸🇦 عاقل

🇨🇿 střízlivý

🇸🇰 triezvy

🇨🇳 清醒的

🇸🇮 trezen

🇮🇸 edrú

🇰🇿 тұнық

🇬🇪 სწორი

🇦🇿 sərt

🇲🇽 sobrio

Etymology

The word 'sobering' originates from the verb 'sober', which hails from the Old English 'sober', meaning 'temperate' or 'not intoxicated'. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'saiwuz', meaning 'to be sober', and is connected to similar words in German and Dutch. The term evolved through Middle English, maintaining its connotation of clarity and seriousness. Over time, 'sobering' has come to be associated with moments that cause individuals to reassess their thoughts or behaviors, especially in light of harsh realities or truths. The modern use of 'sobering' reflects these deeper implications of awakening or realization, often in contexts that require careful consideration of serious subjects.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,541, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.