severo
/seˈvɛ.ro/
The English word 'strict' is translated into Italian as severo.
severo is used to describe someone or something that is governed by or governs by exact rules.
Meaning: governed or governing by exact rules (adj)
Which one should you use?
While severo implies a strictness related to discipline or temperament, rigoroso is used for strict adherence to methods, logic or scientific protocols.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective must agree in gender and number with the person or thing being described. Use severo for masculine singular subjects, severa for feminine singular subjects, severi for masculine plural or mixed-gender groups and severe for feminine plural groups.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /seˈvɛ.ro/. It has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- An Italian speaker would use severo to describe a winter that is exceptionally harsh and cold.
- The word severo is used in Italian art and architecture to describe a style that is plain and austere without unnecessary decoration.
- While severo describes a strict person, the phrase fare il severo means to 'act tough' or put on a stern face to intimidate others.
Examples in context
- Tom è molto severo.Tom is very strict.This sentence shows how to describe a person as being very strict using severo.Tatoeba #2689309 by Guybrush88, translation #2273610 by CK
- Io sono molto severo.I'm very strict.This sentence shows how to describe oneself as being very strict using severo.Tatoeba #5723421 by Guybrush88, translation #5294557 by CK
- Perché è così severo?Why are you so strict?This sentence is useful for asking why someone is being so strict using severo.Tatoeba #8020860 by Guybrush88, translation #7113762 by CM
- Il mio professore è molto rigoroso.My professor is very strict.
- I miei genitori sono severi con le regole.My parents are strict with the rules.
- Il direttore dell'azienda è un uomo intransigente.The company's director is an uncompromising man.
- La mia professoressa è severa come un giudice.My teacher is strict as a judge.
- Il professore è molto rigido, non capisce le nostre difficoltà.The professor is very strict, he doesn't understand our difficulties.
- 33 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Martina and Alessandro are talking about a new manager at work.
- MartinaIl nuovo capo è molto severo.The new boss is very strict.
- AlessandroSì, lo è con tutti.Yes, he is with everyone.
- MartinaTemo che sia troppo severo con noi.I fear he is too strict with us.
- AlessandroNon preoccuparti, Martina, passerà.Don't worry, Martina, it will pass.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry severo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
