Its high degree of digital compression would take a severe toll on the sound of music.

That battle has already taken a severe toll on the profits of Detroit's carmakers.

The sanctions have taken a severe toll on the Serbian economy.

There were few public accidents, but a severe toll of industrial fatalities to the operating staff.

They argue that the project will take a severe toll on the environment.

The stories took a severe toll on her.

It also exacts a severe toll from family members who often can do little but watch helplessly.

Cuts by military manufacturers and change in the computer industry have "taken a severe toll," she said.

The physical and emotional shock of their close brush with death had taken a severe toll on both of them.

As the years have passed, however, the effects of international sanctions took a severe toll on the most vulnerable Iraqis - particularly children.