B2adjective1K

UK/["/sɪˈvɪə(r)/"]/US/["/sɪˈvɪr/"]/

Meaning of Severe

In simple words: Very bad or serious.

Severe in a sentence

  • The storm caused severe damage to the coastal towns.
  • She was in severe pain after the accident.
  • He received a severe reprimand for his behavior at work.
  • The drought has led to severe water shortages in the region.
  • The doctor warned that the illness could become severe if not treated.

How to use Severe

Use 'severe' in contexts like weather, illness, or punishment. It's appropriate in serious discussions but not in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

severe + noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'see-very' — imagine seeing something very serious.

Related words

Collocations with Severe

Synonyms for Severe

Opposites of Severe

Common mistakes with Severe

  • Confusing with 'server', which has a different meaning.
  • Using 'severe' in too casual a context, where 'bad' would be better.
  • Mistaking it for 'serene', which means peaceful.

Compare Severe with Harsh, Stiff

Severe appears in

The Oxford 30003028S1 E11038

S1 E1

S1 E11648

S1 E1

S1 E11962

S1 E1

Severe in other languages

More words like Severe

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Frequently asked questions about Severe

What does Severe mean?

Very bad or serious.

What is the definition of Severe?

extremely bad or serious

How do you use Severe in a sentence?

The storm caused severe damage to the coastal towns.

Can you give another example of Severe?

She was in severe pain after the accident.

What are synonyms for Severe?

Common alternatives include harsh, stern, stiff.

What is the opposite of Severe?

Opposite meanings include mild, gentle, light.

What words go with Severe?

It commonly pairs with be, seem, sound, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Severe?

Confusing with 'server', which has a different meaning. Using 'severe' in too casual a context, where 'bad' would be better. Mistaking it for 'serene', which means peaceful.

How do you pronounce Severe?

US: /["/sɪˈvɪr/"]/, UK: /["/sɪˈvɪə(r)/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Severe?

Use 'severe' in contexts like weather, illness, or punishment. It's appropriate in serious discussions but not in casual conversations.

What CEFR level is Severe?

"Severe" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.