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 Contributions from city contractors are already capped, but Johnson and the council have not moved to adopt more stringent rules proposed by the city’s ethics board. A.d. Quig, Chicago Tribune, 17 Jan. 2025 Range housing, as sheepherder accommodations are called, has less stringent safety and health requirements than standard worker housing. Ian Max Stevenson, Idaho Statesman, 17 Jan. 2025 Their suggestions boil down to three basics: Related Articles How the Watch Duty fire app became a go-to resource during LA wildfires Strong winds forecast to return and threaten Los Angeles area’s fight against fires First, make building requirements stringent for any home proposed in wildlands. David Marston, The Denver Post, 14 Jan. 2025 President-elect Trump's inauguration on Monday will feature some of the most stringent security measures ever taken for a national security event. Cuneyt Dil, Axios, 13 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for stringent 

Podcast

Thesaurus Entries Near stringent

Cite this Entry

“Stringent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stringent. Accessed 28 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on stringent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!