earnest word

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "earnest word" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to convey a sincere or serious statement or promise. Example: "He spoke with an earnest word, assuring us that he would do everything in his power to help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

In her book "How to Look Expensive" (by which she means "classy," that embarrassingly earnest word describing the universally sought-after aura), she reveals the power tools in her arsenal, and provides affordable and D.I.Y. alternatives for her cosmetic weaponry.

The New York Times

After telling us how he taught himself to play a tune on the recorder, he sardonically adds, "What biographer worth his salt could fail to detect here the germ of my aptitude for large-scale effects of wind instruments?" When you talk about Berlioz, you can't escape the feeling that somewhere he is sniggering at every earnest word.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Her own is swaddled like a baby in earnest words and practised modesty.

The Guardian

Hard thing to do, taking more than a few earnest words and a new hashtag or two.

The Guardian - Sport

The character people see on TV — the charming smile, the earnest words and an absence of pretense — is usually who he is in person.

The New York Times - Sports

This wasn't an easy day for the legions who root against James, the combination of his ungraceful exit from Cleveland and the whole concept of the Heat's Big Three as his shortcut to a title being hard to overcome with a few earnest words as he appears ready to finish that shortcut.

The New York Times - Sports

Henry James missed his older brother's wedding in the summer of 1878, and sent William a letter of apology that reads, in part, "As I was divorced from you by an untimely fate on this occasion, let me at least repair the injury given you, in the most earnest words that my clumsy pen can shape, a tender bridal benediction".

The New Yorker

This link contains a brief snippet of my talk and includes my earnest words of wisdom and ends with the admonishment: "Want perfect children?

Huffington Post

It's ironic, then, that Tyler Glenn is now an icon for gay Mormonism, despite having radically turned away from the church's teachings but he is still quick to provide earnest words of encouragement to his former community.

Vice

The New York Critique wrote, "He is an orator by divine right, and his strong, intelligent face in its picturesque setting of yellow and orange was hardly less interesting than those earnest words, and the rich, rhythmical utterance he gave them".

Wikipedia

There had been a few striking images, especially one of a chain gang of slaves linked together by a long blood-red scarf as they heaved across the stage, but nothing at first transcended the all-too-earnest words.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "earnest word" to emphasize the sincerity and genuineness of a statement. This phrase works well when you want to highlight the speaker's deep conviction or commitment.

Common error

Avoid using "earnest word" ironically or sarcastically, as it can undermine the intended meaning. The phrase is most effective when used in sincere and straightforward contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "earnest word" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where 'earnest' modifies 'word'. This highlights the quality of the word being spoken, emphasizing sincerity and seriousness. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "earnest word" is a grammatically correct but relatively uncommon way to describe a sincere and serious statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is appropriate for conveying genuine feelings or commitments. While it appears primarily in News & Media sources, it lends a touch of formality and gravity to the communication. Alternatives like "sincere statement" or "serious declaration" may be more frequently used in contemporary English. Use the phrase to highlight deep conviction, but avoid overuse in ironic contexts to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sincere statement

Replaces the adjective "earnest" with "sincere", focusing on the genuine nature of the word.

earnest comment

Similar to the original, but replaces "word" with "comment".

serious declaration

Emphasizes the gravity and importance of the word.

genuine expression

Highlights the authenticity and lack of pretense in the word.

fervent statement

Stresses the intensity and passion behind the expressed word.

solemn promise

Focuses on the commitment and weight behind the word.

truthful assertion

Stresses the honesty and accuracy of the word.

heartfelt remark

Conveys deep emotion and sincerity in the word.

honest communication

Highlights the transparency and lack of deception in the word.

authentic utterance

Emphasizes the originality and genuineness of the word.

FAQs

How can I use "earnest word" in a sentence?

You can use "earnest word" to describe a sincere or serious statement. For example, "He offered an "earnest word" of encouragement during the difficult time."

What is a good alternative to "earnest word"?

Alternatives to "earnest word" include "sincere statement", "serious declaration", or "genuine expression", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone uses the phrase "earnest word"?

It typically signifies that the person speaking is being sincere and truthful, and that their word should be taken seriously. It highlights the gravity and importance of what is being communicated.

Is "earnest word" a common phrase in modern English?

While grammatically correct, "earnest word" is not as commonly used as alternatives like "sincere promise". Its usage often adds a touch of formality or emphasizes the gravity of the situation.