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
His words, his looks, his whole attitude, proclaimed him to be in earnest.
From The White Gauntlet by Reid, Mayne
"You cannot really be in earnest," persisted Miss Cunningham; "it was the most charming thing in the world; and every one was so happy."
From Amy Herbert by Sewell, Elizabeth
I fancy that for you, if the English Government be in earnest, there will be no absolutely safe place short of the free city of Frankfort.
From The Story of Francis Cludde by Weyman, Stanley John
