GRAVELY

Pronunciation (US): (GB):

I. (adverb)

Sense 1

Meaning:

To a severe or serious degree

Example:

was seriously ill

Synonyms:

badly; gravely; seriously; severely

Classified under:

Adverbs

Pertainym:

grave (causing fear or anxiety by threatening great harm)

Sense 2

Meaning:

In a grave and sober manner

Example:

he walked soberly toward the altar

Synonyms:

gravely; soberly; staidly

Classified under:

Adverbs

Pertainym:

grave (dignified and somber in manner or character and committed to keeping promises)

Credits

Context examples:

"It will be our last in the hills for some time," he announced gravely.

(Martin Eden, by Jack London)

“I see what you think of me,” said he gravely—“I shall make but a poor figure in your journal tomorrow.”

(Northanger Abbey, by Jane Austen)

"I have been a good deal acquainted with him," replied Mrs Smith, gravely, "but it seems worn out now. It is a great while since we met."

(Persuasion, by Jane Austen)

This odd arrangement made Mrs. March smile, but she said gravely, Jo, I confide in you and don't wish you to say anything to Meg yet.

(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)

“My indulgence shall be given, sir,” replied Sir Thomas gravely, “but without any other rehearsal.”

(Mansfield Park, by Jane Austen)

“The joke,” he replied gravely, “seemed confined to you and Mr. Churchill.”

(Emma, by Jane Austen)

She stood at the bottom of the long room, on the hearth; for there was a fire at each end; she surveyed the two rows of girls silently and gravely.

(Jane Eyre, by Charlotte Brontë)

"Yes," he replied gravely, "once I have. One meeting was unavoidable."

(Sense and Sensibility, by Jane Austen)

Bill spoke gravely and slowly, with no hint of the anger that was raging within.

(White Fang, by Jack London)

“Were it certain that Lady Catherine would think so,” said Mr. Collins very gravely—“but I cannot imagine that her ladyship would at all disapprove of you.