seriousness

Definitions

The state or quality of being sincere and in earnest, rather than joking or trifling.

The quality of being significant, grave, or potentially dangerous.

Examples

The seriousness of the situation became clear as soon as the emergency sirens began to wail.

He spoke with such seriousness that everyone in the room stopped talking to listen.

The board members questioned the seriousness of the company's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Synonyms

gravity solemnity earnestness severity staidness sobriety importance

Antonyms

frivolity levity playfulness flippancy lightheartedness silliness triviality