WordGarden.iogrievous
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡrˈiːvəs/
US
- /ˈɡrivəs/
Meanings
Adjective
very serious or severe, especially in causing harm or suffering
legally describing very serious bodily harm
Beyond the definition
A grievous wound is not just a scratch; it is something serious, something that causes deep suffering, whether physical or emotional. Think of the pain someone feels after losing a loved one; that sorrow can be described this way. You might speak of a grievous error as a mistake with very bad results, or a grievous injustice as something deeply unfair and upsetting. It is not just bad; it is deeply distressing.
The word "grievous" describes something that causes great sorrow, pain, or suffering. It goes beyond simple unhappiness; it implies a deep-seated and often lasting sense of distress. While frequently used to describe physical injuries—"He suffered grievous wounds in battle"—it is equally applicable to emotional or moral offenses.
Think of a story filled with loss, injustice, and pain. The word carries that kind of weight. A grievous offense is not just a minor wrong; it is something deeply harmful, like a betrayal of trust, an act of cruelty, or a serious moral failure.
"Grievous" can also describe the intensity of suffering itself. You might say someone is "in grievous pain," meaning their pain is severe and unbearable. It is a formal word, often found in literature, legal contexts (such as "grievous bodily harm"), or when describing particularly profound sadness or hardship.
So, if something is truly grievous, it is not merely unpleasant—it is deeply distressing, profoundly sorrowful, and leaves a lasting impact on those affected. It speaks to the heaviest burdens of life, both physical and emotional.
Examples
- 1
Workplace accident
The explosion caused grievous injuries to several workers.
- 2
Environmental harm
The court found that the factory had done grievous harm to the local water supply.
- 3
Family loss
Her son's death was a grievous blow to the whole family.
- 4
Serious mistake
The report described the decision to ignore the warnings as a grievous error.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Legal charge
He was charged with grievous bodily harm after the attack.
- Domaingrievous bodily harm
a legal term for very serious physical injury
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- grievousadjective