When someone is in earnest, it means they are serious about something and genuinely committed to it. There are many synonyms for this phrase that can be used depending on the context. For example, the words sincere, genuine, authentic, and truthful can all be used to describe someone who is in earnest. Likewise, the phrase "take something seriously" or "be serious about something" can also convey the same meaning. Other synonyms include dedicated, resolute, and determined. These phrases all convey a sense of commitment and honesty, and can be used interchangeably with "be in earnest" to describe someone who is truly invested in a particular cause or belief.