Meaning
严肃 describes a serious, solemn, or grave manner, attitude, or atmosphere. It can refer to someone's facial expression or demeanor, the tone of a situation, or the treatment of important matters. The word conveys both seriousness in temperament and the gravity or weightiness of a topic or occasion.
Usage
严肃 is commonly used to describe people's expressions (严肃的表情), attitudes toward work or study, or the atmosphere of formal occasions. It can function as an adjective or as a verb meaning 'to treat seriously' or 'to maintain discipline.' Native speakers often use it when discussing professional settings, formal meetings, or when someone needs to adopt a more serious demeanor.
Examples
- 01老师严肃地批评了那些迟到的学生。.The teacher seriously criticized those students who were late.
- 02这是一个严肃的话题，我们不应该开玩笑。, .This is a serious topic; we shouldn't joke about it.
Characters
Common collocations
- 严肃对待to treat seriously
- 严肃的态度serious attitude
- 表情严肃serious expression
- 气氛严肃solemn atmosphere
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters carry connotations of strictness and solemnity. 严 originally depicted strictness and severity, while 肃 conveys respectfulness and a solemn demeanor. Together they form a word emphasizing serious, grave conduct.