on a heavier note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a heavier note" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to introduce a topic or statement that is more serious or somber in nature. For example: "On a heavier note, I wanted to address the recent increase in crime rates in our neighborhood." "Let's shift gears and talk about something on a heavier note - the ongoing humanitarian crisis in war-torn countries." "Before we end this meeting, I'd like to touch on a heavier note - the passing of our colleague and friend." Overall, the phrase "on a heavier note" can be used in any situation where you want to transition to a more serious or weighty topic.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

On a heavier note, our nonfiction reviewers contemplate the extent to which the Romantic era's "scientific and literary endeavors enriched each other," in Richard Holmes's "The Age of Wonder," and Henry Ford's failed attempt to grow rubber for his car tires in the Amazon jungle, as documented in Greg Grandin's "Fordlandia".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Sorry to start off on such a heavy note, but such news is impossible to ignore.

Huffington Post

Stop on a good note!

WikiHow

Season 3 ended on a very biotech, science-heavy note.

Los Angeles Times

Put on a super-heavy makeup.

WikiHow

The movie begins on a glaringly heavy-handed note with a subject (Mr. Shenkman) who describes his self-destructive compulsion to shout, "Victory for the forces of democratic freedom!" at the top of his lungs during orgasm.

The New York Times

Stocks fell yesterday after Dell Computer warned that its profit would be hurt by a global economic slowdown, beginning a heavy week for corporate earnings on a dour note.

The New York Times

But Mr. Stiles ends his show on a humorous note: as he leaves the studio, a heavy vault door groans on its hinges, and his footsteps echo.

The New York Times

The piano's intermittent hammering on a single note recalls the climax of the Piano Concerto, the heaviest of Carter's middle-period works.

The New Yorker

The half ended on a sour note for the Premier League side as Cornelius went down under a heavy block-tackle clutching his left ankle.

BBC

(It may improve when, and if, it focuses more on Greer. Right now it feels very Nat Faxon heavy. On a semi-related note, I highly recommend Greer's book, I Don't Know What You Know Me From: Confessions of a Co-Star).

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a heavier note" to smoothly transition into a more serious topic after discussing lighter subjects. This signals to the audience that a shift in tone is coming.

Common error

Avoid using "on a heavier note" when the overall tone of the conversation or writing is already serious. It's best used as a contrast or transition from lighter matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a heavier note" functions as a transitional phrase, signaling a shift in the tone or subject matter to something more serious or weighty. As supported by Ludwig AI, it is a grammatically correct expression used to introduce a somber topic.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on a heavier note" serves as a useful linguistic tool for transitioning into more serious discussions. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and widely used to signal a shift in tone. While versatile, its usage is most prevalent in news and media contexts. When aiming to introduce a somber topic, consider the audience and purpose to ensure appropriate register. By understanding its function, purpose, and context, you can effectively employ "on a heavier note" to navigate complex and sensitive subjects with clarity and grace. Alternatives like "on a more serious note" or "turning to a more serious matter" provide similar options, although the best choice will depend on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a more serious note

Replaces "heavier" with "serious", maintaining the same overall meaning and intent.

on a somber note

Substitutes "heavier" with "somber", emphasizing a sense of gravity and sadness.

turning to a more serious matter

Offers a slightly more formal shift in topic, highlighting the importance of the upcoming subject.

shifting to a darker topic

Emphasizes the negative or unpleasant nature of the subject being introduced.

now, on a more troubling issue

Highlights the problematic or concerning nature of the topic.

let's address a more pressing concern

Focuses on the urgency and importance of the issue at hand.

on the downside

Briefly introduces a negative aspect or development.

on a less cheerful subject

Indicates a shift away from lighter, more positive topics.

to delve into a more difficult area

Signifies a deeper exploration of a challenging or complex issue.

changing gears to a more weighty subject

Emphasizes the importance and significance of the topic to be discussed.

FAQs

How can I use "on a heavier note" in a sentence?

You can use "on a heavier note" to introduce a more serious topic after discussing something lighter. For example: "We've discussed the successes of the project; now, "on a heavier note", let's address the challenges we've faced".

What phrases are similar to "on a heavier note"?

Similar phrases include "on a more serious note", "on a somber note", or "turning to a more serious matter". These all signal a shift to a more serious or somber topic.

When is it appropriate to use "on a heavier note"?

It's appropriate to use "on a heavier note" when you want to transition from a lighter or more positive subject to one that is more serious, somber, or concerning. It's a way to prepare your audience for a shift in tone.

Can "on a heavier note" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "on a heavier note" can be used in formal writing, especially when transitioning between topics of varying seriousness. However, consider the specific context and audience to ensure it's appropriate. More formal alternatives might be preferred in certain situations.