sternness

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.

Edward’s sternness does not preclude real love for all his children.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

In contrast to Usyk's sternness, a playful Fury sang and danced to Bonnie Tyler's 'Holding Out For A Hero'.

From BBC • May 18, 2024

The pope, whose grandfatherly appearance belied an electric charisma, and who was beloved both for his kindness and his sternness, confronted an American church shaped by three decades of progressive change.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 30, 2024

In audio recordings of his interviews with witnesses and suspects, which Murphey provided, he seemed to balance sternness with empathy, establishing an initial rapport before launching into his questioning.

From Salon • Oct. 10, 2023

Etty later wrote that strangers were sometimes put off by her seeming sternness, though she wasn’t actually stern at all.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman