# gravely

**Pronunciation:** /ˈɡreɪvli/ · GRAY-lee

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** adverb

## Meaning 1: Manner

In a serious, solemn, or somber manner.

## Examples

- He spoke gravely about the potential consequences of their actions.
- The judge listened gravely as the evidence was presented.
- She looked at him gravely, her eyes full of concern.

## Meaning 2: Medical

To a severe or critical extent.

## Examples

- The patient's condition worsened gravely overnight.
- He was gravely ill with pneumonia.
- The injury was gravely serious, requiring immediate surgery.

## Synonyms

- seriously — General term for not joking or being lighthearted.
- solemnly — Suggests a deep, formal seriousness, often in a ritual or important context.
- earnestly — Implies sincerity and deep conviction in one's words or actions.
- somberly — Suggests a dark, sad, and serious mood.

## Antonyms

- lightly — In a not serious or casual manner.
- cheerfully — In a happy and optimistic way.
- jokingly — As if joking, not seriously.

## Collocations

- speak gravely — The CEO spoke gravely about the company's financial struggles.
- listen gravely — The jury listened gravely to the defendant's testimony.
- consider gravely — We must consider gravely the implications of this decision.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/gravely

[Browse the English learner dictionary](https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english)