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stern

[sturn] / stɜrn /


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.

As nurses who have evidently seen this situation many times try to revive him, Reed’s seemingly placid song turns with a jolt to a stern warning: “You’re gonna reap just what you sow.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

He listened with wide eyes and a stern face as Delilah complained about a years-long light-rail project in front of Alta Baja “that has been worse for businesses here than COVID.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

"On May 4, two unidentified aircraft struck the outer plate of the port-side ballast tank at the stern of the HMM Namu at roughly one-minute intervals, causing flames and smoke," he said.

From Barron's • May 10, 2026

"Bolivia will provide us with a feel for South American opposition, and will no doubt give us a stern test as they recover from the disappointment of defeat in the World Cup play-offs."

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

He stood back often to study the results of his gnawing, and at last felt he had captured the proud, stern, aloof, strong, honest look of his male parent.

From "Abel's Island" by William Steig




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