| In a field rooted in moral concern, there is a long tradition of solemnity and sternness. |
| Among brothers there may still occur moments of sternness, incomprehension, and the resulting tears. |
| My uncle's familiar voice filled with his accustomed brisk sternness answered. |
| This is the bell I'm used to hearing, but this morning I feel sternness in the sound which goes right through my body. |
| Austerity and sternness will alienate his affections, and severe words will sting him to the quick. |
| The secular world, it must be admitted, was far from displaying the same degree of sternness and consistency. |
