solemnity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'solemnity' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being solemn, serious, and dignified. You can use it in situations where you want to convey a sense of gravity or seriousness. For example: - The atmosphere in the courtroom was filled with solemnity as the judge read out the verdict. - The university's graduation ceremony was a solemn occasion, with the graduates dressed in their caps and gowns. - The funeral service was filled with tears and solemnity as loved ones said their final goodbyes to the deceased. - The pope's visit was met with great solemnity, as thousands of people gathered to hear his message of peace and unity. Overall, 'solemnity' is a formal term and is often used in official or serious contexts. It can also be used in literary writing to add depth and weight to a description or scene.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We might have been sharing a hilarious moment, yet instantly the smiles and laughter disappeared and we stood united in our solemnity out of respect for her loss.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ignoring the etiquette tips that have proliferated online since 'selfie' was declared Oxford Dictionaries' word of the year, the three world leaders appeared to momentarily forget the solemnity of the occasion, adopting the mandatory cheesy grins.

The Guardian

We are still a long way from the day when the Cap of Maintenance, carried with the greatest of solemnity by Lady Stowell of Beeston, is renamed the Benefits Cap.

The Guardian

But something of the solemnity of office has been damaged.Towards 2012In time, some of the movement that Mr Sarkozy has set in place should nudge France out of its comfort zone.

The Economist

Her eyes are invariably downcast, suggesting solemnity, a soul turned inward, and the tragic foreknowledge of her son's fate.

The Economist

Whenever America needed him he was plucked from the glassy corridors of O'Melveny & Myers, the most venerable international law firm in Los Angeles, and set down in Jerusalem, or Belgrade, or Beijing, with his solemnity and tailoring undamaged.

The Economist

From 1954, on the staff of the Japan Society, she worked tirelessly to bring Japanese masters to America, so that people in Florida or Ohio could watch the bows and sips of the tea ceremony, or the gentle koto-playing that had delighted her as a child, or the masked solemnity of Noh plays.

The Economist

Therefore she, Sarah Palin, is not going to elbow in on John McCain's moment.Setting aside the validity of Mr Schmidt's argument here—it's the election that legitimates the next president, not the losing candidate's concession speech it's a little jarring that he's suddenly flying the flag for solemnity.

The Economist

"The people have spoken", she declared, doing her best to combine delight and solemnity.

The Economist

Yes, she added, she knew how to ride a little; she had been given a horse as a present on the day of her first communion.Da Cámara noticed then what fans treasured later: her delicacy, her solemnity and her fearlessness.

The Economist

A group of 172 economists has abandoned the customary solemnity with which Germans wear academic titles and published a juicy open letter to their "dear fellow citizens", warning that the new ESM rules that Mrs Merkel accepted in Brussels were "wrong" and spelled doom.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to convey the weight and importance of an event, use "solemnity" to effectively communicate the gravity of the moment and the respect it commands.

Common error

Avoid using "solemnity" in contexts that require a lighthearted or casual tone. Ensure that the setting and subject matter warrant the seriousness the word implies.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "solemnity" is that of a noun. It refers to the state or quality of being solemn. As Ludwig AI points out, this term appears in various contexts, underscoring its role in conveying seriousness and gravity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

23%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "solemnity" is a noun that denotes a state or quality of being deeply serious and sober. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English, supported by numerous examples from sources such as The Economist, The Guardian, and Encyclopedia Britannica. Its use is most appropriate in formal contexts like news reporting, encyclopedic entries, and academic discussions, where a sense of gravity and respect is paramount. While synonyms like "seriousness" and "gravity" exist, "solemnity" carries a unique connotation of formality and reverence. Therefore, when aiming to convey the weight of an event or situation, "solemnity" is a powerful and appropriate choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seriousness

Focuses on the state of being serious, omitting the nuance of formality or ritual.

gravity

Emphasizes the weightiness or importance of a situation, potentially lacking the ceremonial aspect.

formality

Highlights adherence to established conventions, possibly without the deep emotional tone.

reverence

Implies deep respect and awe, which may not always be present in expressions of "solemnity".

dignity

Stresses stateliness and composure, differing from the somber aspect that "solemnity" often conveys.

earnestness

Refers to sincere and intense conviction, which may not involve the formality of "solemnity".

staidness

Suggests a settled and composed manner, potentially missing the gravity of the moment.

sedateness

Implies calmness and composure, possibly lacking the emotional depth associated with "solemnity".

austerity

Emphasizes strictness and severity, differing from the respectful tone conveyed by "solemnity".

decorum

Highlights proper behavior and etiquette, potentially lacking the emotional weight.

FAQs

How can I use "solemnity" in a sentence?

"Solemnity" is typically used to describe a state or atmosphere characterized by seriousness and reverence. For example: "The funeral was marked by a profound sense of "solemnity"."

What words are similar to "solemnity"?

Synonyms for "solemnity" include "seriousness", "gravity", "formality", and "reverence". Each carries a slightly different nuance, so choose based on the specific context.

Is "solemnity" formal or informal?

"Solemnity" is generally considered a formal term, best suited for serious or official contexts. Using it in casual conversation might sound overly dramatic or out of place.

How does "solemnity" differ from "seriousness"?

While both words describe a lack of levity, "solemnity" often implies a sense of ceremony, tradition, or deep respect that "seriousness" might not necessarily convey.