severe

• Décrit quelque chose de très sérieux, strict ou intense par nature, ou une situation difficile et grave.

Describes something that is very serious, strict, or intense in nature.

1. Very serious or intenseB1formal

   Extremely serious, harsh, or intense in degree or effect.

   Sévère

   • The patient suffered from severe chest pain.
   • The storm caused severe damage to the coastal town.
   • She received a severe punishment for breaking the rules.

   Synonymesacutecriticaldrasticextremefiercegraveintenserackingseriousviolent

   Antonymesbenigngentlelenientmildminormoderateslight

2. Strict or sternB1formal

   Very strict, demanding, or harsh in manner or attitude.

   Sévère, strict

   • The teacher was severe with students who didn't do their homework.
   • He gave her a severe look when she interrupted.
   • The judge was known for being severe in his sentencing.

   Synonymesaustereauthoritariandemandingharshinflexiblerigoroussternstrictunbendinguncompromising

   Antonymesgentleindulgentlenientmildpermissivetolerant

3. Extreme or difficultB2formal

   Used to describe conditions that are very difficult or extreme.

   sévère (conditions extrêmes ou difficiles)

   • The hikers faced severe weather conditions on the mountain.
   • The country is experiencing a severe drought.
   • The company is under severe financial pressure.

   Synonymesarduousdemandingdifficultextremegruelingharshintenserigorousstringenttrying

   Antonymeseasygentlelenientmildmoderate