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
Those imams who still counsel against jihadist terrorism, says Kepel, may be in earnest.
From Time Magazine Archive
They drew aside within the shelter of the house, and appeared to be in earnest conversation, which continued for some minutes.
From In the Yellow Sea by Frith, Henry
You only wish to try me--you cannot be in earnest.
From The Hour Will Come: Volumes I and II A Tale of an Alpine Cloister by Hillern, Wilhelmine von
Don't you believe me to be in earnest, mother?
From The Parent's Assistant Stories for Children by Edgeworth, Maria
