sternly

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.

Faithful ally Eric Nam sternly points out to him that his rants are throwing off everyone else’s game.

From Salon • Jan. 15, 2026

Others—including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has taken great pains to avoid confrontations with the sensitive American president—warned Trump very sternly not to make serious moves on Greenland.

From Slate • Jan. 8, 2026

“The Insider” details these events sternly but with evident reluctance.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 7, 2025

Emmanuel Macron, the French president, sat sternly throughout the start of the meeting before echoing Merz’s call.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 18, 2025

He takes her by the shoulders and looks her sternly in the eye.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern