be in earnest
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In Washington, Reagan Administration officials stressed that the Soviet leader's reform efforts seem to be in earnest, and avoided dashing hopes for better U.S.-Soviet ties.
From Time Magazine Archive
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Those imams who still counsel against jihadist terrorism, says Kepel, may be in earnest.
From Time Magazine Archive
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Your Excellency surely cannot be in earnest in putting this question?
From Through Shot and Flame The Adventures and Experiences of J. D. Kestell Chaplain to President Steyn and General Christian De Wet by Kestell, J. D. (John Daniel)
Everybody whom I shall have must be in earnest.
From The Adventures of a Widow A Novel by Fawcett, Edgar
Don't you believe me to be in earnest, mother?
From The Parent's Assistant Stories for Children by Edgeworth, Maria