Synonym Chooser

How is the word stringent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of stringent are rigid, rigorous, and strict. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

Where would rigid be a reasonable alternative to stringent?

The synonyms rigid and stringent are sometimes interchangeable, but rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When might rigorous be a better fit than stringent?

While the synonyms rigorous and stringent are close in meaning, rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When could strict be used to replace stringent?

Although the words strict and stringent have much in common, strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of stringent There’s also still controversy over the best diagnostic criteria to use; the 2012 consensus hasn’t been universally accepted, and some physicians may rely on less stringent measures, which just adds to the confusion. Erica Sloan, SELF, 3 Dec. 2024 But critics fear the bill’s guardrails are not stringent enough, and suggest patients could feel pressured to opt for an assisted death only to avoid becoming a burden on their families. Rob Picheta, CNN, 29 Nov. 2024 The regulatory environments further diverge, with the EU implementing stringent technological governance frameworks that contrast sharply with the U.S.'s more flexible approach. Josipa Majic Predin, Forbes, 28 Nov. 2024 President-elect Donald Trump is expected to overhaul U.S. financial regulators, which under Democratic President Joe Biden have pursued a slew of stringent new rules for banks, private funds and other lenders. Michelle Price, USA TODAY, 28 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for stringent 

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Cite this Entry

“Stringent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stringent. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

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