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Synonym Chooser

How is the word strict distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of strict are rigid, rigorous, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could rigid be used to replace strict?

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

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for strict?

The words rigorous and strict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When is it sensible to use stringent instead of strict?

Although the words stringent and strict have much in common, stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

Example 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 strict While Michael Garcia, the court's only Republican, is its most conservative member, rulings often reflect a mix of judicial philosophies rather than strict partisan divides. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025 Especially when Cadfael’s worldly wisdom and endless curiosity puts him at odds with his stricter brethren, including the authoritarian Prior Robert (Michael Culver) and his deliciously weasely henchman Brother Jerome (Julian Firth). Mary McNamara, Los Angeles Times, 21 Mar. 2025 Faced with Nantucket’s strict building codes and an ambitious client wish list—including a car showroom, spa, gym, and indoor basketball court—the team at AD PRO Directory firm Workshop/APD recognized an opportunity to create something extraordinary. Kristen Flanagan, Architectural Digest, 19 Mar. 2025 While strict organ specificity was observed for only six diseases, most conditions exhibited partial organ specificity. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for strict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for strict
Adjective
  • Disaster-prone California has regulations that try to help ensure replacement values are accurate.
    Ron Lieber, New York Times, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Tips for Pap Smear Preparation on Your Period Cervical cancer screening, like any lab test, is not always 100% accurate, and certain factors can affect accuracy and comfort during the exam.
    Khadeja Haye, Verywell Health, 19 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • These competitions are known for their rigorous judging processes and high standards, making their results highly respected in the wine industry.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Cigarette smoking, immune system disorders, rigorous exercise, cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, and surgical removal of the ovaries can all cause vaginal dryness.
    Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Characteristics include rigid food choices, meticulous planning and a focus on food as a source of health rather than pleasure.
    The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Plant it in containers or beds with rigid borders, and check frequently for any escapees.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • More than ever before, women feel the freedom to explore and embrace their true desires without fear of societal rejection.
    Mark Davis, Newsweek, 16 Mar. 2025
  • Because true wealth isn’t just accumulated—it’s activated.
    Tim Maurer, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Designed for hiking and other outdoor adventures, these water-resistant pants are made with UPF 50 protection from harsh sun rays along with several spacious, handy pockets.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 22 Mar. 2025
  • And few other front offices are under a harsher microscope this March than the Bulls, whose main prize for trading Zach LaVine was the ability to recoup their draft pick from a prior swap with the San Antonio Spurs.
    Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The nearly $4 billion project is central to Hong Kong’s efforts to revive its economy and international image, following years of stringent pandemic restrictions and a sweeping national security crackdown that fueled an exodus of foreign workers, local professionals and global companies.
    Andrew McNicol, CNN, 22 Mar. 2025
  • These loans bring with them stringent requirements, and part of the fallout has been a steeply plummeting currency.
    Mayu Saini, Sourcing Journal, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Be careful when handling debris that may have blown into your yard.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 27 Mar. 2025
  • Since then, Vance has been more careful not to deviate publicly from the president's policy position.
    Hannah Demissie, ABC News, 26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • They are also seen as sharing a joint interest in diminishing the role of the U.S. and other liberal democracies in determining world events in favor of their own highly authoritarian systems.
    Christopher Bodeen, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2025
  • In this way, democratic parenting is markedly different from both permissive parenting and authoritarian parenting.
    Miranda Rake, Parents, 14 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Strict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/strict. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

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