total seriousness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "total seriousness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the complete and utter seriousness of a situation or statement. Example: "In total seriousness, we need to address the issues that have been affecting our team's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Everything I say is taken with total seriousness".

The New York Times

"These were smart, switched-on young people, French, English, all nationalities, all playing pétanque with total seriousness.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Though the heat is clearly on the Vatican as Ms. Sung's hunger strike drags on, the Italian press has taken her fast with somewhat less than total seriousness.

The New York Times

Tulli strings together stories with an inscrutable but compelling logic, and narrates with total seriousness events that might otherwise seem precious.

The New Yorker

It has often been said that Jean Cocteau was the first major poet and writer to treat the cinema with total seriousness.

The Guardian - Film

"He made the best jelly doughnuts I've ever tasted," Earl said, in complete and total seriousness.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Representative Chris Van Hollen, Democrat of Maryland and a member of the panel, said the attempt to undo the triggers "reflects a total lack of seriousness".

The New York Times

Following Sarah Palin's videotaped statement today, let there be no doubt about her total lack of seriousness -- a character trait, in fact, that's utterly dwarfed by her chronic inability to construct prepared, teleprompter-presented remarks without virtually choking on her own tongue.

Huffington Post

Rooting through a box of supplies, two musicians play everything from castanets to popping bubble wrap – and all with total conviction about the seriousness of their Art.

Independent

She's in total denial about the seriousness of the situation that she finds herself in, insisting that her and Ed are just bystanders, repeating her mantra that all she wants to do is "actualise", to be "the best me I can be"… and still planning to make that Life Spring course (oh how I hope she gets there by the end of the series).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Calder took everything seriously except seriousness.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "total seriousness" to emphasize that a situation or statement should not be taken lightly or treated humorously. It underscores the importance and weight of the matter at hand.

Common error

Avoid using "total seriousness" in casual contexts. While grammatically correct, it carries a weight that may seem out of place in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "total seriousness" functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe the manner in which something is done or perceived. It emphasizes the complete absence of humor or levity. Ludwig AI provides examples where it describes behavior or attitude.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "total seriousness" is a valid and usable expression in English, primarily functioning as a noun phrase to emphasize the complete absence of levity or humor in a particular context. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and often used to underscore the gravity or importance of a situation, statement, or action. While versatile, it is more suited for neutral to formal contexts, such as news reporting or professional discussions. Alternatives like "complete earnestness" or "utter gravity" can offer nuanced variations depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utter gravity

Highlights the weight and importance of the situation being discussed.

grave demeanor

Indicates a serious and somber attitude or appearance.

complete earnestness

Emphasizes sincerity and honesty rather than just the absence of humor.

solemn attitude

Focuses on the dignified and respectful nature of the approach.

absolute solemnity

Focuses on the formal and dignified nature of the situation.

utmost sincerity

Stresses the genuineness and lack of pretense.

humorless approach

Directly indicates an absence of humor in how something is handled.

deadpan delivery

Refers specifically to a manner of speaking or acting without any emotion or humor.

stark severity

Highlights the harsh and uncompromising nature of the situation.

intense focus

Emphasizes concentration and dedication, often implying seriousness.

FAQs

How can I use "total seriousness" in a sentence?

You can use "total seriousness" to emphasize the gravity of a situation, such as, "He delivered the news with "total seriousness", indicating the severity of the matter."

What are some alternatives to "total seriousness"?

Alternatives include "complete earnestness", "utter gravity", or "absolute solemnity", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "total seriousness" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "total seriousness" is suitable for formal writing when you need to highlight the importance and lack of levity in a situation. However, consider alternatives like "utmost sincerity" for a more nuanced approach.

What's the difference between "total seriousness" and "a lack of seriousness"?

"Total seriousness" emphasizes the presence of seriousness, while "a lack of seriousness" highlights the absence of it. For example, "His "total seriousness" was evident in his detailed plan," versus "There was "a lack of seriousness" in their approach to the project."