Solemn
Part of speech: adjective
Definition: Deeply serious and somber. Somberly impressive. Performed with great ceremony. Sacred. Gloomy or sombre.
Example sentence: For me, as for our entire Agency family, the 129 stars on CIA's Memorial Wall are more than just symbols. They are solemn reminders of friends and colleagues who answered their nation's call, and who willingly risked their lives to protect us all.
Serious
Part of speech: adjective
Definition: Without humor or expression of happiness; grave in manner or disposition; earnest; thoughtful; solemn.Important; weighty; not trifling; leaving no room for play; needing great attention; critical.Really intending what is said; being in earnest; not jesting or deceiving; meaningful.
Example sentence: Justifying conscription to promote the cause of liberty is one of the most bizarre notions ever conceived by man! Forced servitude, with the risk of death and serious injury as a price to live free, makes no sense.