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
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)
He must be in earnest with his body, not lazy with it.
From Sunday-School Success A Book of Practical Methods for Sunday-School Teachers and Officers by Wells, Amos R.
Surely—surely you can't be in earnest, sir—" "Oh yes, I am.
From The Hills of Refuge A Novel by Harben, Will N. (Will Nathaniel)
