severe

Very serious, painful, or difficult to deal with.

• She has severe back pain.
• The storm caused severe damage.
• Several villages faced severe water shortages.

Similar words: serious, bad, intense

Opposites: mild

Common phrases: severe pain, severe damage, severe weather

Very strict with people, often treating or punishing them harshly.

• Our teacher was severe with us.
• The judge gave him a severe look.
• Her parents were severe whenever she broke their rules.

How to use it: severe with someone (He was severe with anyone who arrived late.)

Similar words: strict, harsh, stern

Opposites: lenient

Common phrases: severe teacher, severe judge, severe with someone

Very plain and serious in appearance, with little decoration.

• She wore a severe black dress.
• The building has severe lines.
• His severe hairstyle made him look older.

Similar words: plain, austere

Opposites: ornate

Common phrases: severe hairstyle, severe dress, severe lines