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severe

[səˈvɪər]

severe Definition

  • 1(of something bad or undesirable) very great; intense
  • 2strict or harsh in manner, attitude, or appearance

Using severe: Examples

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

  • Example

    The storm caused severe damage to the building.

  • Example

    He received a severe reprimand from his boss.

  • Example

    The patient is in a severe condition and needs immediate medical attention.

  • Example

    The company is facing severe financial difficulties.

severe Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for severe

Idioms Using severe

  • take severe measures

    to take strong and extreme actions to deal with a problem

    Example

    The government has taken severe measures to control the spread of the virus.

  • a difficult challenge or situation that tests one's abilities or character

    Example

    The competition was a severe test of his skills as a musician.

  • an instance of a disease or condition that is particularly serious or advanced

    Example

    The hospital is treating several severe cases of COVID-19.

Phrases with severe

  • weather conditions that are dangerous or damaging

    Example

    The severe weather warning advised people to stay indoors.

  • pain that is intense and difficult to bear

    Example

    She was in severe pain after the accident.

  • criticism that is harsh and strongly disapproving

    Example

    The book received severe criticism for its inaccurate portrayal of historical events.

Origins of severe

from Latin 'severus', meaning 'serious, grave, strict'

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Summary: severe in Brief

The term 'severe' [səˈvɪər] describes something that is intense, great, or strict. It can refer to weather, pain, criticism, or other situations that are difficult to bear, as in 'The storm caused severe damage to the building.' 'Severe' can also describe a person who is strict or harsh, as in 'He received a severe reprimand from his boss.' Idioms like 'take severe measures' and 'severe test' denote extreme actions or difficult challenges.

How do native speakers use this expression?