STERN Synonyms: 210 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'stern' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of stern are ascetic , austere , and severe . While all these words mean "given to or marked by strict discipline and firm restraint," stern stresses inflexibility and inexorability of temper or character. // stern arbiters of public morality

Q: Where would 'ascetic' be a reasonable alternative to 'stern'?

In some situations, the words ascetic and stern are roughly equivalent. However, ascetic implies abstention from pleasure and comfort or self-indulgence as spiritual discipline. // the ascetic life of the monks

Q: When can 'austere' be used instead of 'stern'?

The meanings of austere and stern largely overlap; however, austere stresses absence of warmth, color, or feeling and may apply to rigorous restraint, simplicity, or self-denial. // living an austere life in the country

Q: When is 'severe' a more appropriate choice than 'stern'?

While the synonyms severe and stern are close in meaning, severe implies standards enforced without indulgence or laxity and may suggest harshness. // severe military discipline

stern 1 of 2

adjective

ˈstərn

Definition of stern next

as in strict

given to exacting standards of discipline and self-restraint the army post's stern commander always had the utmost respect of those who served under him

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in gruff

harsh and threatening in manner or appearance a stern receptionist took our names without even looking up

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

stern

2 of 2

noun

as in beam

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective stern contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of stern are ascetic, austere, and severe. While all these words mean "given to or marked by strict discipline and firm restraint," stern stresses inflexibility and inexorability of temper or character.

stern arbiters of public morality

Where would ascetic be a reasonable alternative to stern?

In some situations, the words ascetic and stern are roughly equivalent. However, ascetic implies abstention from pleasure and comfort or self-indulgence as spiritual discipline.

the ascetic life of the monks

When can austere be used instead of stern?

The meanings of austere and stern largely overlap; however, austere stresses absence of warmth, color, or feeling and may apply to rigorous restraint, simplicity, or self-denial.

living an austere life in the country

When is severe a more appropriate choice than stern?

While the synonyms severe and stern are close in meaning, severe implies standards enforced without indulgence or laxity and may suggest harshness.

severe military discipline

Examples Sentences

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Recent Examples of stern

Adjective

When the yacht is anchored, the gunwales around the stern flip down and the platform extends down into the water (ideal for tender operations), for an excellent waterfront living area. —

Katia Damborsky, Robb Report, 9 Dec. 2024 Even against the sternest of defences, Slot’s men tend to find a way. —

Oli Gamp, The Athletic, 23 Nov. 2024

Noun

The pair turned to the south, pointing the stern to the waves, and went below deck to rethink their search grid. —

Caitlin Looby, Journal Sentinel, 21 Sep. 2024 Both vessels showcase robust, sporty exteriors, with clean, simple lines running from bow to stern. —

Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for stern

Recent Examples of Synonyms for stern

Adjective

The firm’s strict focus on valuations has led it to regions other beyond the U.S., such as Europe and Asia.

April Roach, CNBC, 24 Dec. 2024
To recap, the biggest cricket event of 2025 - in a rare year where there is no men's cricket World Cup - will now also be held in the rather sterile surrounds of the UAE after India refused to travel to Pakistan given the strict stance from its nationalistic government.

Tristan Lavalette, Forbes, 24 Dec. 2024