sternness

The teacher's sternness made the students sit up straight.

His sternness towards his employees created a tense work environment.

She faced her parents' sternness with defiance.

The general's sternness was well-known among his troops.

The manager's sternness in enforcing the rules earned him respect.

Despite his sternness, he was fair in his judgments.

The principal's sternness was balanced by his kindness towards students.

Her sternness softened when she saw her child's tears.

The coach's sternness pushed the team to work harder.

In times of crisis, his sternness was seen as necessary for leadership.