be in earnest
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In Washington, Reagan Administration officials stressed that the Soviet leader's reform efforts seem to be in earnest, and avoided dashing hopes for better U.S.-Soviet ties.
From Time Magazine Archive
Those imams who still counsel against jihadist terrorism, says Kepel, may be in earnest.
From Time Magazine Archive
"Can you be in earnest, aunt Betsy?" said Agnes, looking very pale.
From The Widow Barnaby Vol. III (of 3) by Trollope, Frances Eleanor
Men worth their salt make their opportunities, but if they don't even take them when they are ready-made to their hand, they cannot be in earnest.
From Diana Tempest, Volume III (of 3) by Cholmondeley, Mary
They drew aside within the shelter of the house, and appeared to be in earnest conversation, which continued for some minutes.
From In the Yellow Sea by Frith, Henry
