in the strict/strictest sense (of the word)
phrase
—used to refer to using the correct or precise meaning of a word
He's not a volunteer in the strict/strictest sense (of the word) because he receives a small stipend.
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“In the strict/strictest sense (of the word).” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20the%20strict%2Fstrictest%20sense%20%28of%20the%20word%29. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.
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