grave

adjective C1 Formal

Meaning

The term "grave" as an adjective denotes a state of seriousness or critical importance, often implying a sense of urgency or weightiness in context, particularly in discussions involving moral, ethical, or existential considerations.

💡 While "grave" can refer to physical locations (as in burial sites), its adjectival use predominantly conveys a figurative sense of seriousness; it is often misused in casual contexts where a less intense term would suffice.

Example Sentences

The committee expressed grave concerns about the project's financial stability .

The company faces a grave risk if it ignores market changes .

The doctor expressed grave concerns about the patient's health condition .

The study highlights the grave consequences of climate change on biodiversity .

Word in Context

He sat by the caf é window , watching the steady rain and trying to order his thoughts into something coherent . The decision in front of him felt grave , not dramatic but quietly decisive in its consequences for his daily life . He listed practical options in his notebook and considered the emotional trade - offs with a deliberate , almost methodical attention . Each time he reread a line he adjusted it , aware that small changes now could prevent regret later . When the waitress refilled his coffee without interrupting him , he felt a modest relief — resolution , he realized , often comes slowly and through steady , persistent choices .

Common Phrases

grave consequences grave implications grave concerns

Synonyms

Related Words

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