英汉词典

1. （更）严肃地;（更）郑重地
    If something is done or happens in earnest, it happens to a much greater extent and more seriously than before.

    e.g. Campaigning will begin in earnest tomorrow...
           竞选将于明日郑重开始。
    e.g. The two countries can finally start negotiating in earnest about issues of mutual concern.
           两国终于可以开始就双方共同关心的问题进行更为认真的谈判。

2. 认真的;诚挚的;真诚的
    Earnest people are very serious and sincere in what they say or do, because they think that their actions and beliefs are important.

    e.g. Ella was a pious, earnest woman...
           埃拉是个虔诚、认真的女人。
    e.g. His expression is as earnest when he smiles as when he is arguing...
           他不论笑的时候还是争论的时候表情都同样真诚。