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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


severe

adjective

Definition: 1. very bad in degree or extent; 2. very harsh and uncompromising in discipline or judgment; 3. very difficult to endure; 4. having a stern or serious appearance; 5. austere or plain in look or style

Synonyms: serious, grave, strict, restrictive, harsh, dour, demanding, painful, dangerous, extreme, stern, austere, stark

Antonyms: mild, gentle, easygoing, moderate

Tips: Severe is derived from the Latin word severus, "serious." In English, the word severe is used to denote something of a very serious nature. The related noun severity denotes seriousness or harshness.

Usage Examples:

I have a severe headache, so I'm going to lay down and rest. (painful, extreme)

The severity of the pain became so bad that he was given morphine. (seriousness, harshness) noun

Your actions were terrible, and you deserve severe punishment for them. (harsh, strict)

She looked too severe with her hair pulled back tightly and wearing a high-collared blouse. (stern, austere)


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