The antonyms for the phrase "not be serious" are quite numerous, and they all convey different meanings. Some of the antonyms include being serious, earnest, grave, solemn, sincere, somber, and thoughtful. These words describe the opposite of being frivolous, playful, or flippant. Being serious implies a sense of importance, responsibility, and urgency, whereas not being serious suggests the absence of these qualities. Ultimately, the choice between these antonyms depends on the context and tone of the message. For instance, being somber might be appropriate when talking about a solemn occasion, while being playful might be acceptable in a lighter setting.