Grievous – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Grievous (adjective)

Grievous is an adjective used to describe something that causes great sorrow, suffering, or distress. It often implies a severe nature, highlighting the emotional or physical pain associated with an event or condition.

Examples

• The grievous loss of her father left her devastated.
• His grievous mistake cost the company millions in damages.
• The accident caused grievous injuries to the driver.
• She endured grievous hardships during the long journey.
• The grievous news brought tears to everyone’s eyes.
• The grievous betrayal ended their lifelong friendship.
• The grievous consequences of his actions were unavoidable.
• The war brought grievous suffering to countless families.

Meaning

• Serious
• Severe
• Painful

Pronunciation

• UK: /ˈɡriːvəs/ (GREE-vuhs)
• US: /ˈɡriːvəs/ (GREE-vuhs)

Synonyms

• Serious
• Severe
• Painful
• Harrowing
• Devastating
• Heartbreaking
• Critical
• Grave
• Dire
• Lamentable
• Sorrowful
• Tragic
• Wounding
• Agonizing

Usage Tips for Grievous

• Use to emphasize the seriousness or severity of pain or loss.
• Commonly describes emotional, physical, or moral harm.
• Avoid using it for trivial or minor issues.
• Suitable for formal or solemn contexts.

Origin

Grievous (1300–1400):

It is derived from the Old French grevos, meaning burdensome or painful. The root grieve comes from the Latin gravis, meaning heavy or serious.

Similar Words to Grievous

• Serious
• Severe
• Painful
• Harrowing
• Tragic
• Critical
• Grave
• Dire
• Agonizing
• Devastating

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of grievous in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, grievous means سنگین or شدید.

Q: How do we use grievous in a sentence?

Ans: The grievous injury required immediate medical attention to prevent further harm.

Q: What’s the difference between grievous and serious?

Ans: Grievous emphasizes sorrow or suffering, while serious highlights importance or gravity.

Related Words: