
Earnest
Not playful
Use 'earnest' to describe someone's behavior when they are not joking and mean what they say.

His apology was in earnest; he really was remorseful.
Convey respect
'Earnest' often shows respect for the subject or situation being discussed due to the sincere approach.

Her earnest speech at the ceremony moved everyone.
Emotional weight
When someone speaks in earnest, they convey a sense of importance and concern.

Listen to me in earnest; this matter affects us all.
Compare with
CommitDevotedGenuineIntenseSeriousSincereSustain
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