Pronunciation: /sɪˈvɛrəti/

Definitions of severity

noun the quality or state of being severe; harshness or strictness

Example Sentences

A1 The severity of the storm caused widespread damage to the area.

A2 The severity of the punishment depends on the seriousness of the offense.

B1 The severity of the illness required immediate medical attention.

B2 The severity of the economic crisis led to layoffs and budget cuts.

C1 The severity of the environmental impact cannot be underestimated.

C2 The severity of the situation called for drastic measures to be taken.

adjective severe; extreme; intense

Example Sentences

A1 The severity of the storm caused widespread damage.

A2 The severity of the flu symptoms made him stay in bed all day.

B1 The severity of the punishment was a deterrent for future wrongdoing.

B2 The severity of the economic crisis led to widespread layoffs.

C1 The severity of the crime warranted a lengthy prison sentence.

C2 The severity of the environmental impact requires immediate action to mitigate the damage.

Examples of severity in a Sentence

formal The severity of the situation called for immediate action.

informal The severity of the storm forced us to stay indoors.

slang I can't believe the severity of that burn!

figurative The severity of her words cut deep into his heart.

Grammatical Forms of severity

plural

severities

comparative

more severe

superlative

most severe

present tense

severity

future tense

will severity

perfect tense

have severity

continuous tense

is severity

singular

severity

positive degree

severe

infinitive

to severity

gerund

severing

participle

severed

Origin and Evolution of severity

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'severity' originated from the Latin word 'severitas', which is derived from the Latin word 'severus' meaning serious or strict.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'severity' has retained its original meaning of being serious or strict, but it has also come to encompass a broader range of meanings related to harshness, rigidity, and sternness.