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

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 stringent The mere fact of its existence, at a time of stringent control, is remarkable, which makes Zhang’s directorial achievement all the more impressive. Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 29 Jan. 2025 To mitigate potential noise impacts from aircraft operations, the airport maintains some of the most stringent noise rules in the United States. Jonathan Granoff, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025 The country is not a signatory to the Geneva Conventions, and its stringent domestic asylum law has granted residency to only 17% of the more than a million Syrians who live in the country. Ana Martín Gil, The Conversation, 27 Jan. 2025 However, Levit will be facing more stringent conditions. Sabienna Bowman, People.com, 27 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 11 Feb. 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!