To treat something with proper attention, gravity, and commitment rather than dismissing it as trivial. It means to recognize the importance or potential consequences of a situation.
This phrase developed in the 19th century as 'seriously' evolved from meaning 'gravely' or 'solemnly' to include 'with earnest attention.' The construction emphasizes the deliberate choice to adopt a serious attitude toward something that might otherwise be ignored.
The phrase reveals how we often have to consciously choose our level of engagement with challenges or opportunities. It's psychologically interesting that we need to remind ourselves and others to be serious, suggesting that our default mode might be to minimize or avoid difficult realities.
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