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.
Those imams who still counsel against jihadist terrorism, says Kepel, may be in earnest.
From Time Magazine Archive
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
He seems always to be in earnest, and sometimes in haste, for he had much to work.
From Amenities of Literature Consisting of Sketches and Characters of English Literature by Disraeli, Isaac
I wish from my soul, and hope my Julia will soon join my wish, that the Baron may be in earnest in his attention to Miss Finch.
From The Sylph, Volume I and II by Cavendish, Georgiana
The girl was evidently distressed—it never occurred to her that she might not be in earnest.
From Mysterious Mr. Sabin by Oppenheim, E. Phillips (Edward Phillips)
