Said sternly
/sɛd ˈstɜrnli/
B1said (past tense), sternly (adverb)
Definition
The phrase "said sternly" describes how someone speaks with a firm, serious voice. It shows that the speaker is strict or wants to make sure the listener understands something important, often with a feeling of warning or disapproval.
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See It in Action
To speak in a strict or serious way
- •The teacher said sternly, "You must finish your homework before playing."
- •She said sternly, "Don't touch that again."
- •He said sternly, "This behavior is not acceptable."
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "said sternly" like "said" (A1 word) but with a strong, serious voice that makes you pay attention
- ✓Picture a teacher frowning and speaking clearly to a student who did something wrong
- ✓It's the feeling when someone talks seriously because they want you to listen carefully or behave well
- ✓Sounds like "said" + "stern-ly" → imagine someone saying words with a "stern" (strong, serious) tone that feels like a firm hand on your shoulder
- ✓Remember a parent or coach giving a serious warning or instruction — not angry, but firm and clear
- ✓NOT like "said happily" (friendly, soft voice), "said sternly" is serious and strong
- ✓NOT like "shouted" (loud and angry), "said sternly" is firm but controlled
Try Other Words
- •Said firmly: spoke in a strong but not harsh way (Use when the tone is strong but less strict)
- •Said seriously: spoke with importance and no joking (Use when focus is on importance, not strictness)
- •Warned: told someone about danger or rules (Use when the meaning is about giving a warning)
- •Reprimanded: spoke to someone to show they did wrong (Use in formal or official situations)
Unboxing
- •"said": past tense of "say," meaning to speak words
- •"sternly": adverb from "stern," meaning serious, strict, or firm in manner
- •"stern" comes from Old English "styrne," meaning strict or severe
- •The phrase combines a simple verb with an adverb to show HOW something was said
- •Common in stories and conversations to show tone or mood of speech
Reflect & Connect
•When do you think it is important to say something sternly instead of kindly?
•How does speaking sternly change the way people listen and react?
Fill in the blanks
1.The teacher said sternly because the students were ___ the rules.
2.When she said sternly, you could tell she wanted to ___ the behavior immediately.
3.Saying something sternly is different from saying it ___ or softly.
4.He said sternly and made sure his words ___ serious consequences.
5.Parents often say sternly when they want their children to ___ attention.
6.If someone says something sternly, they usually want to ___ a warning or rule.
7.When the coach said sternly, the players knew they had to ___ harder.