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Anonymous Posted 11 years ago
Grammar

I'm being serious vs I'm serious

What's the difference between "I'm being serious" and "I'm serious" ?
Thanks!
  

Top answer

They mean essentially the same thing. If there is a difference, the extra word in the first one gives more emphasis and makes it more formal and serious-sounding. For example: A: I've seen a ufo.

— Anonymous

  • They mean essentially the same thing.
  • If there is a difference, the extra word in the first one gives more emphasis and makes it more formal and serious-sounding.
  • For example: A: I've seen a ufo.
  • B: Hah.
  • A: No, I'm serious/I'm being serious.
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3 Answers
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They mean essentially the same thing. If there is a difference, the extra word in the first one gives more emphasis and makes it more formal and serious-sounding. For example:

A: I've seen a ufo.
B: Hah.
A: No, I'm serious/I'm being serious.
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Anonymous What's the difference between "I'm being serious" and "I'm serious" ?Thanks!
I'm being serious focuses on a temporary situation, not a permanent state of mind. I am being serious in this particular matter at this particular time. However, "I'm serious" may substitute for this meaning.

I'm serious is also used just to mean
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