The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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earnest

adjective

/ˈəːnɪst/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of earnest

Having a sincere, genuine, and wholehearted quality or demeanor in a person's behavior, attitude, or intentions.
"He had an earnest desire to be a good father, and devoted himself to his children."

Detailed meaning of earnest

When someone is described as earnest, it means they approach tasks, conversations, or commitments with a deep sense of seriousness and dedication. They are not merely going through the motions but are fully invested in their actions or words, often displaying a strong desire to achieve their goals or fulfill their responsibilities. An earnest individual is typically characterized by honesty, integrity, and a genuine eagerness to do what is right, making them trustworthy and reliable in their interactions. The term "earnest" conveys an absence of pretense or superficiality, emphasizing the authenticity and sincerity of the individual's efforts and intentions.

Example sentences containing earnest

1. John spoke with earnest determination to achieve his goals.
2. The students listened attentively to their teacher's earnest explanation.
3. Sarah's earnest apology showed her genuine remorse for her actions.
4. The team worked with an earnest effort to complete the project ahead of schedule.
5. Despite the challenges, the volunteers remained earnest in their commitment to the cause.
6. The CEO's earnest leadership inspired the employees to give their best.

History and etymology of earnest

The adjective 'earnest' has its etymological origins in Old English. It is derived from the Old English word 'earnost,' which means 'zeal' or 'seriousness.' In essence, 'earnest' originally conveyed the idea of displaying zeal or seriousness in one's actions, attitude, or intentions. Over time, this term evolved in Middle English and came to describe individuals who demonstrated a sincere, genuine, and wholehearted quality in their behavior and intentions. An earnest person is someone who approaches matters with seriousness, sincerity, and dedication. The etymology of 'earnest' underscores its historical connection to the expression of genuine commitment and sincerity, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and seriousness in human interactions and endeavors.

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Further usage examples of earnest

1. Alice displayed an earnest interest in learning new skills and improving herself.
2. The book was written with an earnest desire to inspire positive change in society.
3. The couple had an earnest conversation about their future plans together.
4. The audience was captivated by the speaker's earnest and heartfelt words.
5. The artist's earnest passion for painting was evident in every stroke of the brush.
6. Despite the setbacks, the team remained earnest in their pursuit of victory.
7. The politician's earnest promises resonated with the voters during the campaign.
8. The movie portrayed an earnest and heartwarming story of friendship.
9. Samantha's earnest attitude towards her studies earned her top grades.
10. The journalist conducted an earnest investigation to uncover the truth behind the scandal.
11. The young athlete displayed an earnest determination to excel in her chosen sport.
12. The community members worked together with earnest cooperation to rebuild after the disaster.
13. He approached the task with an earnest determination, determined to see it through to the end.
14. She was an earnest student, always eager to learn and asking thoughtful questions.
15. He made an earnest attempt to fix the broken fence, but was unable to complete the repair.
16. He made an earnest plea to the judge, explaining the circumstances that led to his mistake.
17. She was an earnest supporter of the cause, always willing to volunteer her time and resources.
18. She made an earnest promise to do better in the future, and worked hard to keep her word.
19. He was an earnest lover, always dedicated and sincere in his feelings for his partner.
20. He made an earnest effort to learn the language, studying diligently and practicing every day.
21. He made an earnest request to the committee, hoping to be given the opportunity to speak.
22. Her earnest attempts to work in advertising paid off.
23. The search to find the missing person began in earnest.
24. He was a very earnest young man with serious ambitions.
25. He was an earnest student who never missed a lecture.
26. His political career began in earnest after quitting his job.
27. Filming will begin in earnest tomorrow morning.