Definition

Describing something that makes you think seriously or feel concerned about a situation.

Example

The documentary had a sobering effect on the audience, making them realize the seriousness of the issue.

Conversation

Did you read that article about climate change?

Yeah, it was pretty sobering to think about the effects.

I know, right? It really makes you reconsider our choices.

Definitely! We need to take it seriously and make changes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make someone feel serious or thoughtful, often by presenting a harsh reality or truth.

Example

The news of the accident was sobering for everyone in the community.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I just watched that documentary about climate change, and it was really intense.

Yeah, those kinds of films can be quite sobering sometimes.

It made me realize how much we need to change our habits.

Root Explanation

Sobering → It is formed from "sober" (from Old French *sober*, meaning not intoxicated) and "-ing" (a suffix used to form present participles or adjectives). The word "sobering" refers to the process or effect of making someone sober or serious, often in a figurative sense of becoming more serious or reflective.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'sober' which means not intoxicated, and remember that 'sobering' describes the process of becoming serious or reflective.

Visually Confused Words