stern
Translation
stern, strict, severe
Examples
She gave me a stern look.
She gave me a stern look.
He is a stern but fair teacher.
He is a stern but fair teacher.
They face a stern test of their abilities.
They face a stern test of their abilities.
Grammar Patterns
((stern)) + noun (e.g. look, warning, voice). She gave me a stern look.
be + ((stern)) ((with sb.)). The teacher is stern with the students.
Similar Words
Synonyms: strict, severe, harsh; Antonyms: gentle, lenient, kind
Etymology
From Old English 'styrne' meaning 'strict, severe'.
Memory Tips
Imagine a ship's 'stern' (the back part), which is strong and unyielding, just like a stern person.