Grievous

/ˈɡriːvəs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
causing grief or sorrow; painful; serious.
The family faced a grievous loss when their beloved pet passed away.
characterized by severe suffering or sorrow; very serious or extreme.
The grievous situation called for immediate intervention from the authorities.
appalling; outrageous.
The grievous errors in the report led to a major scandal within the organization.
causing or deserving great pain or suffering.
She described the grievous consequences of the disaster in her speech.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'grievous', from Latin 'grievosus', meaning heavy or painful.

Common Phrases and Expressions

grievous error
A very serious mistake.
grievous harm
Significant damage or injury.
grievous plight
A serious and distressing situation.

Related Words

grieve
To suffer from the loss of someone or something.
grief
Intense sorrow, especially caused by someone's death.
grievance
A complaint or resentment.

Slang Meanings