stern (B2)
adjective
Pronunciation: /stɜːn/
Definition
Serious and unforgiving in manner, appearance, or character.
Examples
She gave him a stern look when he arrived late.
The teacher's stern voice made the children quiet down immediately.
He was known for his stern disapproval of laziness.
How to Use stern
- stern about (prepositional phrase)
- To be very serious or strict regarding a particular matter. — "My parents were very stern about finishing homework before playing."
- stern disapproval (collocation)
- A strong feeling or expression of not approving of something. — "The community expressed its stern disapproval of the proposed development."
Synonyms of stern
Words with a similar meaning to stern:
Antonyms of stern
Words with the opposite meaning to stern:
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