Earnest - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Earnest means sincere, serious, and wholehearted in intention or effort. It describes someone who is deeply committed or genuine, often showing strong determination or honesty in their actions or words.
Definition:
Serious and sincere in intention or effort.
Synonyms:
sincere, serious, fervent, genuine, heartfelt
Part of Speech:
adjective, noun
Antonyms:
frivolous, insincere
Common Collocations:
earnest request, earnest effort, earnest conversation, earnest desire, earnest tone
Derivatives:
earnestly, earnestness
Usage Tips:
Use "earnest" to describe someone or something showing deep sincerity or serious intent.
Common Phrases:
in earnest, earnestly yours, dead earnest
Etymology:
From Old English "eornost," meaning seriousness or zeal; related to German "Ernst."
Examples:
- 1. She spoke in an earnest tone about her goals.
- 2. His earnest efforts impressed everyone at the meeting.
- 3. They made an earnest promise to help each other.
- 4. Her face showed an earnest expression of concern.