Dictionary
English - Dutch

Serious

ˈsɪriəs
Extremely common
800 - 900
800 - 900
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.

serieus, ernstig, gedegen, zwaar

Serious meanings in Dutch

serieus

Example:
He is a serious student.
Hij is een serieuze student.
This is a serious issue.
Dit is een serieus probleem.
Usage: formal/informalContext: Used to describe someone's demeanor, attitude, or the gravity of a situation.
Note: In Dutch, 'serieus' can describe both a person's attitude and the importance of an issue.

ernstig

Example:
She has a serious illness.
Ze heeft een ernstige ziekte.
The accident was serious.
Het ongeval was ernstig.
Usage: formalContext: Often used in medical or grave contexts to describe severity.
Note: 'Ernstig' is more commonly used in serious situations, like health or accidents.

gedegen

Example:
He has a serious understanding of the topic.
Hij heeft een gedegen begrip van het onderwerp.
She made a serious proposal.
Ze deed een gedegen voorstel.
Usage: formalContext: Used to denote thoroughness or depth in understanding or proposals.
Note: This meaning emphasizes a solid or well-founded quality.

zwaar

Example:
He has a serious burden to carry.
Hij heeft een zware last te dragen.
That’s a serious commitment.
Dat is een zware verplichting.
Usage: informalContext: Used to describe something that is heavy or burdensome, either literally or metaphorically.
Note: Here, 'zwaar' can also imply emotional weight.

Serious's synonyms

grave

Grave implies seriousness and often suggests a sense of urgency or importance.
Example: The situation is grave and requires immediate attention.
Note: Grave can imply a more severe or critical level of seriousness compared to 'serious'.

earnest

Earnest conveys a deep sincerity or seriousness in one's intentions or actions.
Example: She spoke in an earnest tone, showing her genuine concern.
Note: Earnest often implies a heartfelt seriousness or commitment to a cause or belief.

solemn

Solemn suggests a serious and dignified behavior or mood, often associated with formal occasions or rituals.
Example: The ceremony was conducted in a solemn atmosphere.
Note: Solemn carries a sense of gravity and reverence that may not always be present in the term 'serious'.

severe

Severe indicates a high degree of seriousness, often related to harsh or extreme circumstances.
Example: The company faces severe financial challenges.
Note: Severe implies a more intense or critical level of seriousness, usually involving significant consequences.

Serious expressions, common phrases

dead serious

To be completely serious or earnest about something.
Example: I'm dead serious about quitting smoking this time.
Note: The addition of 'dead' intensifies the seriousness of the statement.

serious business

Something that is significant, important, or requires full attention and effort.
Example: Preparing for the presentation is serious business; we can't afford to make mistakes.
Note: The term 'serious business' highlights the gravity or importance of a matter.

take something seriously

To consider something as important and deserving attention or effort.
Example: You need to take your studies seriously if you want to improve your grades.
Note: Emphasizes the act of giving importance to something rather than just acknowledging it.

get serious

To start being focused, determined, or committed to a task or goal.
Example: We need to get serious about our health and start exercising regularly.
Note: Implies a shift in attitude or behavior towards a more dedicated or earnest approach.

a serious contender

Someone or something that has a strong chance of winning or succeeding in a competition.
Example: She is a serious contender for the position of team captain; her skills are unmatched.
Note: Highlights the competitiveness or strong capability of the individual or entity.

in all seriousness

To emphasize that what is being said is earnest, genuine, or not a joke.
Example: In all seriousness, we need to address the issue before it gets out of hand.
Note: Indicates a transition to a more sincere or genuine tone in conversation.

serious as a heart attack

Extremely serious or grave, with no room for doubt or levity.
Example: His warning was serious as a heart attack; we knew we had to heed it.
Note: The comparison to a heart attack underscores the severity and urgency of the situation.

get down to serious business

To start focusing on important or crucial matters without further delay.
Example: Now that the introductions are over, let's get down to serious business and discuss the project details.
Note: Emphasizes the transition from casual or introductory activities to a more significant or critical task.

serious about (something)

To be genuinely committed, dedicated, or sincere about a particular intention or goal.
Example: She's serious about pursuing a career in music; it's her passion.
Note: Highlights a strong level of commitment or determination towards a specific objective or interest.

Serious everyday (slang) expressions

deadly serious

To emphasize extreme seriousness or sincerity about something.
Example: When he said he would quit his job if he didn't get a raise, he was deadly serious.
Note: The addition of 'deadly' intensifies the seriousness.

real talk

Slang used to emphasize that what is being said is genuine, honest, or serious.
Example: Real talk, you need to start taking your studies more seriously if you want to improve.
Note: Adds a conversational and informal tone to serious statements.

no joke

Indicating that something is serious, authentic, or significant.
Example: He may seem laid back, but when it comes to his work, he's no joke.
Note: Implies a seriousness that should not be underestimated.

on the real

Slang term to express authenticity, honesty, or sincerity in what is being said.
Example: On the real, I think you should consider starting your own business.
Note: Conveys a sense of being genuine or legitimate in a casual manner.

all business

Describing someone who is serious, focused, and professional in their actions.
Example: When she's in the office, she's all business, getting things done efficiently.
Note: Emphasizes a no-nonsense approach to tasks or interactions.

Serious - Examples

Serious problems require serious solutions.
Serieuze problemen vereisen serieuze oplossingen.
This is a serious matter that needs to be addressed immediately.
Dit is een ernstige zaak die onmiddellijk moet worden aangepakt.
It's important to take your job seriously if you want to succeed.
Het is belangrijk om je werk serieus te nemen als je wilt slagen.

Serious grammar

Serious - Adjective (Adjective) / Adjective (Adjective)
Lemma: serious
Conjugations
Adjective (Adjective): serious
Syllables, Separation and Stress
serious Contains 3 syllables: se • ri • ous
Phonetic transcription: ˈsir-ē-əs
se ri ous , ˈsir ē əs (The red syllable is stressed)

Serious - Importance and usage frequency

The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000.
serious: 800 - 900 (Extremely common).
This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
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