sobering
Học thuậtThân thiện
The news report had a sobering effect on the family gathered in the living room.
Definition
Adjective: 1. Making one serious or thoughtful; causing one to abandon frivolity or illusion: Describes something that has the effect of making a person more serious, realistic, or solemn, often by presenting challenging facts or a harsh reality.
Usage
The adjective "sobering" is used to describe an experience, piece of information, event, or thought that causes a shift in mood from lighthearted or optimistic to serious, realistic, or concerned. It often implies a confrontation with an unwelcome truth.
Examples
- The report on climate change presented sobering data about rising sea levels.
- Visiting the historical site was a sobering reminder of the tragedies of war.
- His doctor's warning about his health had a sobering effect on his lifestyle choices.
- It is a sobering thought that many species become extinct each year.
Advanced Usage
- "a sobering reality/thought": A common collocation emphasizing a fact or idea that induces seriousness.
- The difficulty of finding a job in this economy is a sobering reality for new graduates.
- "serve as a sobering reminder": Used to indicate that something acts to make people remember a serious lesson or fact.
- The recent accident serves as a sobering reminder to always wear a seatbelt.
Variants and Related Words
- Sober (verb): To become or make someone become serious or thoughtful.
- The bad news sobered the celebratory mood of the gathering.
- Sober (adjective): 1. Not drunk. 2. Serious and sensible.
- Soberly (adverb): In a serious and sensible manner.
- He spoke soberly about the challenges ahead.
Synonyms
- Serious
- Somber
- Grave
- Humbling
- Sober-minded
Antonyms
- Lighthearted
- Frivolous
- Encouraging
- Exhilarating
The news report had a sobering effect on the family gathered in the living room.
Adjective
- tending to make sober or more serious
- the news had a sobering effect