stern command

[/stɜːrn kəˈmɑːnd/]
noun phrasepl: stern commands
ordem severa
1. A firm, strict, or harsh instruction or directive given with authority and little tolerance for disobedience
The captain issued a stern command that all crew members report to deck immediately.
O capitão emitiu uma ordem severa que todos os membros da tripulação se apresentassem no convés imediatamente.
2. An authoritative demand delivered in a serious, uncompromising tone
With a stern command, the teacher demanded silence in the classroom.
Com uma ordem severa, a professora exigiu silêncio na sala de aula.
In Brazilian culture, 'ordem severa' reflects hierarchical communication styles common in military, educational, and corporate settings. In the USA, stern commands are often seen as direct management style, whereas in Brazil they may emphasize respect for authority figures and established hierarchies. The phrase is neutral in Portuguese but carries connotations of seriousness and non-negotiability in both cultures.
NYC Slang
tough order
Synonyms / Sinônimos
harsh orderstrict instructionauthoritative directiverigid commandimperious demand
Antonyms / Antônimos
gentle requestmild suggestionpolite plealenient instruction

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ordem severa
Standard usage in formal and informal contexts
São Paulo
ordem dura
More colloquial variant, frequently used in business contexts
Rio de Janeiro
ordem firme
Slightly softer alternative while maintaining authority
Portugal
ordem rigorosa
Portuguese variant emphasizing rigorous nature of the command

Related Words

sterncommandorderdirectiveauthoritydiscipline

Related Idioms & Phrases

lay down the law
crack the whip
put one's foot down
speak with authority
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →