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.

Those imams who still counsel against jihadist terrorism, says Kepel, may be in earnest.

From Time Magazine Archive

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

Yes, father," Lato murmured, "we must be in earnest, instead of enjoying ourselves thoughtlessly and with a dread of work.

From 'O Thou, My Austria!' by Schubin, Ossip

So says Lilly; but it is certain that if an astrologer be in earnest, he must deceive himself, if he do not deceive others.

From Witch, Warlock, and Magician Historical Sketches of Magic and Witchcraft in England and Scotland by Adams, W. H. Davenport (William Henry Davenport)

I wish from my soul, and hope my Julia will soon join my wish, that the Baron may be in earnest in his attention to Miss Finch.

From The Sylph, Volume I and II by Cavendish, Georgiana