sternly told

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sternly told" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where someone is giving a serious or strict command or instruction. Example: "The teacher sternly told the students to stop talking during the exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

I was sternly told off for inappropriate language.

The Guardian - Opinion

"You need to eat properly," Dr. Lakhanpal sternly told a young woman in labor.

The New York Times

The guard walked over and sternly told the old fellow he'd have to leave.

The New Yorker

The agent sternly told my "friend" to go back in line with everyone else.

The New York Times

He sternly told those in evacuation zones that refusing to leave immediately endangered the entire city by diverting emergency workers.

The New York Times

In industry people get sternly told, shifted around, demoted or fired.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

"You must go on," Lanzmann sternly tells him.

The New Yorker

An adult figure sternly tells them off, ordering them offstage in angry gestures.

Independent

Second, if an interview goes awry, sternly tell the producer to tell the host via earpiece to wrap it up.

The New York Times

In one scene, Ms. Levites, playing a supposed blues queen, sternly tells the young audience members not to smile.

The New York Times - Arts

The Union's paymasters want to hold down budget transfers to the new members, sternly telling them not to expect the generosity shown in the past to Spain or Ireland.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sternly told" to convey a sense of authority or disapproval in a situation where a direct command or instruction is given. Consider the context to ensure the tone aligns with the intended message.

Common error

Avoid using "sternly told" in informal or casual conversations, as it can sound overly formal or harsh. Opt for more natural phrasing like "firmly said" or "clearly stated" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sternly told" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the manner in which information or instructions are conveyed. It modifies the verb "told", adding the adverb "sternly" to emphasize the severity or seriousness of the communication. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its usage in describing authoritative commands.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sternly told" is a phrase used to describe a communication delivered with authority and seriousness. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it's grammatically correct and commonly found in news and media, and more formal contexts, where the tone of a statement is crucial. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations where a firm, authoritative tone is intended. When a less intense phrase is needed, consider options like "firmly stated" or "clearly stated" to avoid sounding overly formal or harsh. The phrase's communicative purpose is to emphasize the gravity and authority behind a statement or instruction. Use the writing tips and examples provided to ensure you use "sternly told" accurately and effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

firmly stated

Emphasizes the decisiveness and lack of ambiguity in the statement, focusing on the manner of speaking.

authoritatively declared

Highlights the speaker's position of authority and the official nature of the announcement.

sharply reprimanded

Focuses on the critical and corrective nature of the communication, implying disapproval.

emphatically asserted

Stresses the forcefulness and conviction with which the information was conveyed.

strictly warned

Highlights the warning aspect of the communication, emphasizing potential consequences.

admonished severely

Focuses on the act of giving serious advice or a scolding.

declared forcefully

Emphasizes the strength and intensity of the declaration.

reproved sternly

Highlights the act of criticizing or correcting in a severe manner.

soundly rebuked

Emphasizes a strong and thorough disapproval or criticism.

bluntly conveyed

Focuses on the directness and lack of subtlety in the communication.

FAQs

How can I use "sternly told" in a sentence?

You can use "sternly told" to describe a situation where someone in authority delivers a command or instruction in a severe manner. For example, "The judge "sternly told" the defendant to remain silent".

What are some alternatives to "sternly told"?

Alternatives to "sternly told" include "firmly stated", "authoritatively declared", or "sharply reprimanded", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "sternly told" appropriate for formal writing?

"Sternly told" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing situations involving authority figures or serious reprimands. However, consider the overall tone of your piece and whether a more neutral phrase might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "sternly told" and "simply told"?

"Sternly told" implies a sense of severity, authority, and disapproval, whereas "simply told" is a neutral statement indicating that information was conveyed without any particular emphasis or emotion. The choice depends on the context and the intended tone.