OpenSynonym

earnest

/ˈɜːrnɪst/

ADJECTIVE

1. Serious and sincere in attitude or expression

Showing genuine sincerity, honesty, and seriousness in one's words, feelings, intentions, or actions, rather than being joking, insincere, or pretentious.

1.1. People and personal character

Used to describe someone who is sincere, serious-minded, and genuinely committed to what they say or believe.

Synonyms

  • sincere
  • serious-minded
  • serious
  • genuine
  • wholehearted
  • devoted

Antonyms

Examples

  • She is an earnest person who always keeps her promises.
  • His earnest character earned him the trust of his colleagues.

Related Words

1.2. Communication and expression

Used to describe words, conversations, apologies, requests, or statements that convey genuine feelings, serious intentions, or honest concern.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The apology was sincere and delivered in an earnest manner.
  • The candidate spoke with earnest conviction about their commitment to the community.
  • They held an earnest discussion about the future of the organization.

Related Words

ADJECTIVE

2. Eager and determined to achieve something

Showing strong enthusiasm, determination, and genuine desire to pursue a goal, accomplish a task, or obtain something.

2.1. Goals and ambitions

Used to describe someone who is strongly motivated, enthusiastic, and determined to achieve a particular objective.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • She was earnest in her desire to become a successful writer.
  • The young athletes were earnest in their pursuit of excellence.
  • He remained earnest and determined despite facing numerous obstacles.

Related Words

2.2. Efforts and activities

Used to describe efforts, attempts, or work carried out with strong commitment, diligence, and a serious intention to achieve a successful result.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • Her earnest efforts to learn a new language were evident in her progress.
  • The team made an earnest attempt to resolve the disagreement.
  • He approached every assignment with earnest dedication.

Related Words

ADJECTIVE

3. Deeply focused and absorbed

Showing intense concentration, attention, or involvement in a particular activity, subject, or objective.

3.1. Concentration and attention

Used to describe someone who is deeply absorbed in an activity or gives sustained and undivided attention to a particular subject or task.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • The students listened with earnest attention during the lecture.
  • She gave the project her earnest and undivided concentration.
  • He was earnest in his study of the subject, carefully examining every detail.

Related Words