It is arguably the first serious practical attempt to deal with the various problems America faces.

ECONOMIST: Energy policy and the environment

But there are quite serious practical arguments about that which are difficult.

BBC: Breakfast with Frost

You can be as serious or as snarky, as witty or as practical, as staid or as droll (you get the idea) as you want to be.

FORBES: Redesign the IRS Web Site

In court, O'Connor's demeanor is serious and studied, her questions spare and pointed on the practical effect of laws.

CNN: Sandra Day O'Connor: Self-reliant and ambitious