sternly

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "sternly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an action that is done in an authoritative manner. Example sentence: The teacher sternly warned the students to be quiet in the library.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Monis's lawyer sternly instructed him not to talk to the press when he was on trial for this crime.

The Guardian

Jim Carter, whom she met during Richard Eyre's National theatre production of Guys and Dolls in the early 1980s, is now best known as Carson, the sternly eyebrowed butler in Downton Abbey.

The Guardian

Until they leave, Colonel Daniel warned them sternly, they have a difficult job to do.

The New York Times

And in part she is talking, softly but sternly, to the Germans, lest they forget that as recently as the 1990s, Germany was called "the sick man of Europe".Keeping the European family healthy takes never-ending hard work and forbearance, says the Protestant pastor's daughter and Mutti of her nation.

The Economist

He or she might do more to reassure Gulf monarchies and speak more sternly to Iran.

The Economist

Whereas Mr Suharto was sternly authoritarian, Mr Habibie has been ready to reform: he has given freedom to the press, emptied the jails of political prisoners and offered self-determination to the people of East Timor.

The Economist

Those who believe America has become a colour-blind society, the younger King said sternly, must themselves be blind.Although he has been chosen to perpetuate the 1960s, the younger King may yet surprise.

The Economist

In addition, the opposition party, which has done well in recent elections, is sternly anti-nuclear.

The Economist

Addressing the 108th class of Egypt's military academy, his alma mater, which had mounted an artfully choreographed parade of bicycles that was bound to please Mr Sisi, a keen cyclist, the president sternly warned that Egypt's troubles require sacrifices by every citizen.

The Economist

Even before it was disclosed, Jean-Claude Trichet, president of the European Central Bank, noted sternly on French radio that the French state was the highest-spender as a share of GDP, "not only in the euro zone but within the European Union of 27".

The Economist

In a populist touch, Mr Ma sternly warned Beijing not to interfere: "The blood of our Taiwanese is brave, pragmatic and persevering .In this section Living the dream From whence cometh my help Seconds out, round one Head to head A change in the climate Where there's smoke Things fall apart in Japan ReprintsMs Tsai hoped to distance the DPP from its past radicalism and woo centrist voters.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sternly" when you want to emphasize the serious and authoritative manner in which something is said or done. It's effective in formal contexts to convey a sense of control or disapproval.

Common error

Avoid using "sternly" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or even theatrical. Opt for milder adverbs like "seriously" or "firmly" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "sternly" is as an adverb, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. It indicates that the action is carried out in a severe, authoritative, or strict way. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academic

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sternly" functions as an adverb to denote a severe and authoritative manner. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, noting its frequent use in news and media to emphasize seriousness. While effective in conveying authority, it's best reserved for contexts where such a tone is appropriate, avoiding overuse in casual settings. Alternatives such as "firmly" or "seriously" can offer milder alternatives when needed. The word appears frequently in authoritative sources such as The Economist and The New York Times.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

severely

Emphasizes the harshness or intensity of the action or statement.

severely

Emphasizes the harshness or intensity of the action or statement.

strictly

Focuses on adherence to rules or standards, implying a lack of leniency.

firmly

Suggests a resolute and unwavering approach.

harshly

Highlights the unpleasant or painful nature of the action.

authoritatively

Indicates an action or statement made with recognized power or expertise.

gravely

Implies a serious or solemn manner.

somberly

Suggests a gloomy or serious atmosphere.

with disapproval

Highlights the act of expressing disagreement or negative judgment.

in an austere manner

Describes a severe or strict approach, often lacking warmth or friendliness.

FAQs

How can I use "sternly" in a sentence?

Use "sternly" to describe an action or statement made in a severe or authoritative manner. For example, "The headmaster "sternly" addressed the students about their behavior".

What words can I use instead of "sternly"?

Alternatives to "sternly" include "severely", "firmly", or "strictly", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "sternly" and "seriously"?

"Sternly" implies an authoritative and often disapproving tone, while "seriously" simply indicates that something is important or consequential. For example, you might "sternly" warn a child, but "seriously" consider a job offer.

Is it appropriate to use "sternly" in a business email?

Using "sternly" in a business email depends on the context and your relationship with the recipient. It can be appropriate if you need to address a serious issue with authority, but consider whether a more diplomatic term like "firmly" would be more effective.