earnest
Say it: UR-nist /ˈəːnɪst/ · adjective
What “earnest” means
Sincere and very serious about what you say or do.
More precisely: Sincere and intensely serious about something.
Example: “He made an earnest promise to stop checking his phone at dinner.”
When to use it
When someone cares deeply and speaks or acts sincerely. Usually positive, though it can suggest being a little too serious.
Similar words
sincere, serious, heartfelt
Where it comes from
From Old English eornust, 'seriousness'.
Quick check
Your brother looks you in the eye and sincerely promises to care for your plants while you're away. He's…
solemn or earnest?
Show the answer
earnest
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