grievous

What does “grievous” mean?

adjective.(of something bad) very severe or serious.

SAT Usage

this term commonly appears in passages discussing themes of loss, suffering, or moral failings. It emphasizes the severity and weight of a situation, suggesting profound consequences or emotional impact, distinguishing it from similar terms like "serious" or "critical," which may not convey the same depth of distress or moral gravity.

Common Confusions

Grievous implies a profound severity with moral implications, while serious usually suggests a significant level of importance or concern without necessarily conveying the same emotional weight or ethical distress.

Example Sentences

• Plagiarism is considered a grievous offense with serious academic consequences.

• The grievous loss of the community leader left a profound void, as everyone mourned the absence of her guidance and unwavering support.