Spanish word

severo

Pronunciation

IPA/seˈβeɾo/

Meaning

  • adjectivestrict

Example

El profesor es severo con los estudiantes.

The teacher is strict with the students.

Illustration for severo (strict)

More examples

Tomaron medidas severas contra el incumplimiento.

They took strict measures against noncompliance.

Core concept

A stern authority enforcing rules without tolerance.

Common phrases

  • medidas severas

    strict measures

  • disciplina severa

    strict discipline

  • actitud severa

    stern attitude

Similar words

estricto: Enforces rules or requirements firmly and consistently, expecting them to be followed.
exigente: Demands high performance or quality, pushing others to meet challenging standards.
duro: Speaks and behaves in a cold, harsh way that can feel emotionally unkind.
riguroso: Follows procedures and standards with careful precision and no shortcuts.

Definition in Spanish

Que muestra exigencia o falta de tolerancia al juzgar conductas, imponer normas o aplicar castigos.

Word origin

From Latin severus 'strict, severe', passed through Romance languages into Spanish where severo denotes strictness in judging, imposing rules, or applying punishment.

Usage tips

  • Often used with people as 'severo con alguien', while 'estricto' often sounds more natural for rules or policies.

Other meanings

  • sternadjective
  • harshadjective

Opposites

  • laxolaxadjective
  • benignolenientadjective

Related words

  • severidadseveritynoun
  • severamenteseverelyadverb

Word lists with this word