serious

adjective
UK: /ˈsɪəriəs/
US: /ˈsɪriəs/

  1. Important and needing a lot of thought or attention.

    1. This is a serious problem that we need to solve fast. [ ] [ ]
    2. The company is facing a serious financial crisis which needs addressing. [ ] [ ]

  2. Bad or dangerous; causing great harm or worry.

    1. He had a serious accident, but he is okay now. [ ] [ ]
    2. Pollution is a serious threat to the environment of the entire planet. [ ] [ ]

  3. Quiet and thoughtful in appearance or manner.

    1. She looked very serious, I wonder what she's thinking about. [ ] [ ]
    2. He has a serious demeanor, which makes him a good judge I think. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

grave important critical solemn earnest sincere
serious adverb

  1. In a sincere and earnest manner.

    1. Are you serious? Is it true? [ ] [ ]
    2. I'm serious about changing my life; it's time to do what I want to. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "serious" in English means: Important and needing a lot of thought or attention., Bad or dangerous; causing great harm or worry., Quiet and thoughtful in appearance or manner..

The phonetic transcription of "serious" is /ˈsɪəriəs/ in British English and /ˈsɪriəs/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "serious": grave, important, critical, solemn, earnest, sincere.

Example usage of "serious": "This is a serious problem that we need to solve fast.". More examples on the page.