1.   Although his nomination of Powell was hardly a surprise, Bush tried to convey a seriousness of purpose in his first major appearance since claiming victory three days earlier.

2.   Now I know that being boring is another way of conveying high seriousness.

3.   Smith is to meet with Gingrich this week and vows to convey her seriousness to GOP leaders.

4.   Young people say that brown hair promotes an image of casualness and informality, while black hair conveys seriousness.