sense of seriousness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sense of seriousness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling or perception of gravity or importance regarding a situation or topic. Example: "In discussing the environmental crisis, it is crucial to convey a sense of seriousness to motivate action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Naturally, a lot of the humor is self-directed, mocking the authors' own sense of seriousness.

The New Yorker

The sense of seriousness that accompanies black and white photography is made richer through hand-toning.

The New York Times

The N.F.L. treats concussions with a greater sense of seriousness and urgency than it has in the past.

The New York Times - Sports

James C. Stultz, 28, the company commander, recalled the sense of seriousness as the soldiers grasped the work ahead.

The New York Times

While Cranley did not have much name recognition in his district, the TV cameras trailing him helped lend a sense of seriousness and importance to his campaign.

Harvard University

While they have since revised their views on fiction (they now read it), they still share a sense of seriousness and healthy competition that typified their first meeting.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"The work honored their sense of the seriousness and importance of what they had done".

The New York Times - Arts

It means we have a sense of the seriousness of our actions that is linked to a proportionately serious outcome.

Harvard University

"What he did was inflammatory and showed no sense of the seriousness of these issues for people's lives".

The Guardian

"I recognized my younger self in her in the sense of the seriousness and dedication to which she approaches the part," Ms. Mirren said.

The New York Times

"A lot of that progress is motivated by the sense of American seriousness and the fear of getting on the wrong side of us".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to inspire action on a critical issue, framing it with a "sense of seriousness" can heighten the emotional impact and encourage engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "sense of seriousness" in informal or lighthearted situations. Overusing it can make your communication sound overly dramatic or insincere when a lighter touch is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sense of seriousness" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes an awareness or appreciation of the importance and gravity of a situation, as seen in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sense of seriousness" is a commonly used phrase that effectively conveys the gravity and importance of a situation. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is grammatically correct and widely used across news, academic and scientific contexts. While interchangeable with similar phrases like "feeling of gravity", it's important to reserve its use for appropriate contexts, avoiding overuse in casual settings. By recognizing its function and communicative purpose, you can enhance the impact of your writing and encourage thoughtful engagement with serious topics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feeling of gravity

Emphasizes the weightiness or importance of a situation or subject.

perception of importance

Highlights the awareness or recognition of significance.

feeling of responsibility

Focuses on the accountability and duty associated with seriousness.

air of solemnity

Suggests a formal and dignified seriousness.

tone of gravity

Refers to the manner or style conveying seriousness.

degree of importance

Focuses on the level or extent of significance attributed to something.

level of concern

Indicates the amount of worry or apprehension about a matter.

earnestness of approach

Highlights the sincerity and dedication in dealing with something.

seriousness of purpose

Emphasizes the determination and resolve behind an action.

weightiness of the matter

Focuses on the heavy or substantial nature of a particular issue.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "sense of seriousness" in a sentence?

To effectively use "sense of seriousness", ensure it aligns with the gravity of the topic. For instance, “The climate crisis demands a "sense of seriousness" from world leaders.”

What phrases can I use instead of "sense of seriousness"?

You can use alternatives like "feeling of gravity", "perception of importance", or "earnestness of approach" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "sense of seriousness" in a lighthearted discussion?

No, using "sense of seriousness" in a lighthearted discussion may sound out of place. It is best reserved for situations that genuinely require a serious and thoughtful approach.

How does "sense of seriousness" differ from "sense of urgency"?

"Sense of seriousness" conveys the importance and weightiness of a matter, while "sense of urgency" implies the need for immediate action. The former emphasizes contemplation, the latter emphasizes promptness.