gravitas

USAGE SUMMARY

'gravitas' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a quality of seriousness, weight, and importance, or to the dignity and seriousness associated with a person or situation. For example: "The president showed a great deal of gravitas as he addressed the nation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Because Mr Basinski – and we use the deferential formal term of address because his work is sufficiently serious in its execution and substantial in its weight and gravitas to warrant it – is a truly welcome discovery.

The Guardian - Music

Scottish Labour MPs were desperate for Miliband to go after Sturgeon, but he also had to counterbalance any attacks with the need to show he had the restraint and gravitas of a putative prime minister.

The Guardian

So are Cameron, Clegg and Miliband when they seek both to respond to the challenge of Ukip's Nigel Farage – the BBC's Eddie Mair should be allowed a crack at Nigel, Boris is gravitas itself by comparison – and to reassure voters in ways that Bishop Walker wants to see.

The Guardian

We need people to recognise that short-term, minimum-intervention help is as important as heart surgery and should be regarded and funded with the same gravitas".

The Guardian

And with four years as her nation's chief diplomat on the world stage under her belt, Mrs Clinton's personal gravitas is even harder to quibble with than it might have been in 2008.

The Guardian - Opinion

She's demonstrated her grit and her gravitas many times over.

The Guardian - Opinion

They allow him to play the elder statesman and display his gravitas - and Campbell has gravitas the way Dalmatians have spots.

The Guardian

But his appointment to Loewe gave his point of view gravitas.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To say that Haneke brought gravitas to the proceedings is putting it mildly.

The Guardian - Film

Even a track such as Heart Won't Bruise, which recalls Katy B, begins with all the gravitas of a Maroon 5 B-side.

The Guardian - Music

She doesn't have the gravitas to lead Zimbabwe".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gravitas" when you want to convey a sense of seriousness, dignity, and importance, especially in formal or professional contexts. It's particularly effective when describing individuals or situations that command respect.

Common error

Avoid using "gravitas" in casual or informal settings. Its formal tone can sound out of place and pretentious in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler words like "seriousness" or "importance" instead.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "gravitas" is as a noun. It represents a quality of seriousness, dignity, or importance. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is used to describe a person or thing that carries significant weight and influence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gravitas" is a noun denoting seriousness, dignity, and importance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. It is frequently used in news, media, and formal business settings to describe individuals or situations commanding respect. While generally positive, overusing it in informal contexts should be avoided. Alternatives include "seriousness", "dignity", and "weightiness", offering nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. Understanding its appropriate context and subtle implications is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dignity

Emphasizes the quality of being worthy of respect, which is a key component of "gravitas".

seriousness

Focuses on the state of being serious, lacking the inherent dignity implied by "gravitas".

weightiness

Highlights the importance and impact associated with a person or situation, a significant aspect of "gravitas".

substance

Indicates depth and significance, resembling the underlying value component of "gravitas".

solemnity

Stresses the grave and serious nature, often in a formal setting, aligning with the formal usage of "gravitas".

importance

Highlights the significant impact and relevance, mirroring a key aspect that "gravitas" conveys.

seriousness of purpose

Explicitly points to a dedicated and earnest intention, resembling the committed aspect of "gravitas".

authoritative presence

Highlights the power and credibility associated with the person or thing described by "gravitas".

commanding presence

Emphasizes the impactful and authoritative demeanor that contributes to "gravitas".

moral fiber

Implies strength of character and ethical integrity, core elements that can contribute to a sense of "gravitas".

FAQs

How can I use "gravitas" in a sentence?

"Gravitas" is often used to describe someone who exudes a sense of seriousness and importance. For example, "The president spoke with great "gravitas" during the national address."

What are some words similar to "gravitas"?

Words with similar meanings include "seriousness", "dignity", and "weightiness". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "gravitas" a positive or negative quality?

"Gravitas" is generally viewed as a positive attribute, indicating that someone is respected and taken seriously. However, too much "gravitas" could come across as pompous or overly formal.

What's the difference between "gravitas" and "charisma"?

"Gravitas" refers to seriousness and weightiness, while "charisma" is about charm and influence. A leader can have "gravitas" without "charisma", and vice versa.