levity

[ˈlevəti]

levity Definition

humorous or lack of seriousness, especially during a serious occasion.

Using levity: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "levity" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The speaker's attempt at levity fell flat in the somber room.

  • Example

    She tried to inject some levity into the tense situation with a joke.

  • Example

    His levity was seen as inappropriate given the gravity of the situation.

levity Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for levity

Antonyms for levity

Phrases with levity

  • with all due respect and seriousness

    Example

    I say this with all due levity, but your proposal is not feasible.

  • a tendency to be lighthearted or frivolous

    Example

    Her levity of mind made it difficult for her to take anything seriously.

  • a carefree or flippant attitude

    Example

    His levity of manner belied the seriousness of his intentions.

Origins of levity

from Latin 'levitas', meaning 'lightness'

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Summary: levity in Brief

The term 'levity' [ˈlevəti] refers to humor or lack of seriousness, especially during a serious occasion. It can be used to describe a person's attitude or behavior, as in 'His levity was seen as inappropriate given the gravity of the situation.' 'Levity' can also be used in phrases like 'with all due levity,' which means with all due respect and seriousness.

How do native speakers use this expression?