B1noun3K

Severity

UK //sɪˈvɛr.ɪ.ti//US //sɪˈvɛr.ɪ.ti//

Definition

The quality of being very serious or harsh.

In simple words: How serious or harsh something is.

Examples

  • The severity of the storm caused widespread damage.
  • Medical professionals assessed the severity of the injury.
  • This report outlines the severity of climate change effects.
  • His behavior showed a severity that was unexpected.
  • The severity of the punishment shocked everyone.

Usage notes

Use 'severity' when discussing degrees of seriousness, such as in medical conditions or weather. It's appropriate in both formal and casual contexts but less common in everyday conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'severe' - something very tough or harsh.

Collocations

  • severity of the situation
  • severity index
  • severity scale
  • high severity
  • low severity

Synonyms

  • seriousness
  • harshness
  • intensity
  • gravity
  • risks

Antonyms

  • mildness
  • gentleness
  • leniency

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'severity' with 'seriousness'.
  • Using 'severity' in plural form incorrectly, as it is usually uncountable.
  • Mixing up the context where 'severity' should be used, like casual discussions.