utter seriousness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utter seriousness" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to emphasize the extreme level of seriousness in a situation or statement. Example: "He spoke with utter seriousness about the consequences of his actions." Alternative expressions include "absolute seriousness" and "sheer seriousness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Thomson treats Stein's words here with utter seriousness.

The New York Times - Arts

The strange young heroes, of all kinds, white, colored, Mexican, Indian, were performing with utter seriousness.

The New Yorker

Wills takes with utter seriousness the text (John 14 6) that says that Christ is truth.

The New York Times - Books

She could even handle the occasional joke, if with utter seriousness.

The New York Times - Food

It's this combination of glamour and utter seriousness that Nancy Mitford laughed at, and that I find irresistible".

The New York Times

He advocates, in utter seriousness, using demographic data to calculate the number of potential mates in your geographic area.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Russell sets the then-inexperienced Donohoe enough challenges to floor a veteran – I'd like to see Daniel Day-Lewis keep his composure while shimmying out of an oversized wicker basket wearing a fitted satin two-piece – but she never wavers from a performance that somehow combines high camp with utter, fixed seriousness.

The Guardian - Film

Even the most banal of remarks is dressed in ridicule for comic effect, with raised eyebrows and a conspiratorial sideways glance, uttered with the utmost seriousness to convey the exact opposite.

The Guardian

Calder took everything seriously except seriousness.

The New Yorker

Deborah Bee writes: Anita was an odd mix of seriousness and mischief, utter self-belief and vulnerability.

The Guardian

The amount of times characters utter the word "monster" with grave seriousness is almost worth the price of admission, or at least a drinking game.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an event or a person's behavior, using "utter seriousness" can highlight a contrast with expectations or surrounding circumstances. For example: "Despite the absurdity of the situation, he approached it with "utter seriousness".

Common error

Be cautious using "utter seriousness" when describing something intended as ironic or satirical. Ensure the context genuinely reflects unwavering importance, not a humorous or critical perspective conveyed through feigned seriousness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter seriousness" functions as an intensifier followed by a noun, adding emphasis to the degree of seriousness. As Ludwig AI tells us, this expression is correct and usable in English, serving to highlight the gravity or importance of something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utter seriousness" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase used to emphasize the extreme level of seriousness. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for various writing contexts, particularly in news and media. It is advisable to consider alternative phrases like "complete solemnity" or "absolute earnestness" to add variety to your writing. When using the phrase, be cautious of contexts involving irony or satire, ensuring it accurately reflects a genuine, unwavering importance. Remember, "utter seriousness" conveys gravity, focus, and the absence of levity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete solemnity

Replaces "seriousness" with "solemnity", emphasizing a formal and dignified approach.

absolute earnestness

Substitutes both words, highlighting sincerity and conviction.

total gravity

Focuses on the weight and importance of the matter at hand.

sheer intensity

Emphasizes the high degree of focus and emotional power involved.

profound dedication

Highlights commitment and deep involvement.

unwavering commitment

Focuses on a firm and steadfast dedication.

intense focus

Emphasizes concentration and attentiveness.

deep sincerity

Highlights genuineness and honesty.

fixed determination

Emphasizes resolute intention and purpose.

thorough dedication

Emphasizes the comprehensive and exhaustive nature of commitment.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "utter seriousness" in a sentence?

Employ "utter seriousness" to emphasize the complete lack of levity or the intense focus applied to a situation. For example: "The judge regarded the evidence with "utter seriousness"." It conveys that the matter is being treated with the utmost importance.

What are some alternatives to "utter seriousness" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "complete solemnity", "absolute earnestness", or "total gravity" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "utter seriousness" and "intense seriousness"?

While both convey a high degree of importance, "utter seriousness" suggests a complete and unwavering focus, whereas "intense seriousness" might imply a heightened emotional state accompanying the gravity of the situation.

When is it appropriate to use "utter seriousness" in writing?

Use "utter seriousness" when describing situations where a lack of levity is crucial, or when highlighting the intensity with which someone approaches a task or decision. It's particularly effective in formal or professional contexts where emphasizing the gravity of the situation is important.