austere

• Qualifie quelque chose de sévère, strict ou simple dans son apparence ou son comportement, souvent sans luxe ni ornement.

Describes something that is severe, strict, or simple in appearance or manner, often lacking luxury or decoration.

1. Severe or strict in mannerB2formal

   Having a stern, serious, and strict appearance or attitude.

   Sévère ou strict dans le comportement

   • The austere teacher rarely smiled at his students.
   • Her austere expression made everyone feel nervous.
   • He lived an austere life, avoiding all luxuries.

   Synonymesdourforbiddinggrimharshseveresobersternstrict

   Antonymesaffablegeniallenientmercifulmildpleasant

2. Simple and plainB2formal

   Having no decoration or luxury; very simple.

   Simple et dépouillé

   • The room was austere, with only a wooden chair and a table.
   • They preferred an austere design for their home.
   • The monastery's austere interior reflected their commitment to simplicity.

   Synonymesbarefunctionalmodestplainseveresimplespartanstarkunadornedunornamented

   Antonymesdecorativeelaborateextravagantfancygrandlavishluxuriousopulentornatesumptuous

3. Economically harshC1formalpolitical

   Relating to a policy or situation where spending is reduced and conditions are difficult.

   austère (sens économique)

   • The government implemented austere measures to reduce the deficit.
   • During the recession, families faced austere budgets.
   • The country adopted an austere economic plan.

   Synonymesbleakdraconianharshrigorousseverespartanstrictstringent

   Antonymesextravagantgenerouslavishluxurious