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Synonyms for

Severe

Adjective / sʌˈvɪr / Another word for severe — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

very great; intense; harsh; serious

Synonyms & similar words

serious austere lifethreatening grave dangerous grievous wicked stern spartan stark terrible knockout hard acute harsh intense serious extreme grave hard rigorous tough stringent stern austere strict uncompromising exacting onerous onerous onerous onerous onerous

Synonyms by register

Formal

stringent rigorous austere drastic

Informal

tough hard bad rough

Literary

dire grim harsh

Antonyms

mild gentle slight moderate minor trivial easy

Common collocations

  • severe weather
  • severe pain
  • severe injury
  • severe consequences
  • severe criticism
  • severe drought
  • severe shortage

Word family

noun severity
adverb severely

Usage note

Often used to describe conditions, pain, or consequences that are extreme or intense. Can also refer to strictness or lack of leniency.

Compare "severe" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The punishment for breaking the rules was severe.
  2. The doctor said the injury was severe and needed immediate attention.
  3. The earthquake caused severe damage to the city.
  4. The winter storm brought severe cold and snow.
  5. The drought was so severe that many crops died.

Quotes

  • Sometimes things have to get worse before they get better. It's a severe truth that many people refuse to accept.
  • In severe storms, my mind becomes a maze of things to do, decisions to make, and fear.
  • The most severe criticism is that of the man who knows the most about the subject.

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