| Answer | Crossword Clue |
|---|---|
| ACERBIC | Sour or severe. |
| STERN | Harsh or severe |
| RIGOROUS | Harsh or severe |
| ACUTE | Sharp or severe |
| LAX | Not strict or severe |
| FACER | Severe check or defeat: Colloq. |
| RELAX | Become less severe or strict |
| FIRSTDEGREE | Most severe, or least severe |
| ACIDTESTS | Severe or decisive trials: 2 wds. |
