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Synonym Chooser

How is the word rigid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigid are rigorous, strict, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for rigid?

The synonyms rigorous and rigid are sometimes interchangeable, but rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When might strict be a better fit than rigid?

The words strict and rigid can be used in similar contexts, but strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could stringent be used to replace rigid?

Although the words stringent and rigid 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 rigid Many questioned whether the teacher was being too rigid in expecting students to use the exact phrasing from a lesson rather than acknowledging correct mathematical reasoning. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025 But things get complicated when Isabel unexpectedly falls for Charlie’s widowed father, Jason (Walker), and begins to question the rigid rules of her job. Rebecca Angel Baer, Southern Living, 17 Sep. 2025 Somni also notes that the rigid post surrounded by the foam ear tip is slim and articulated. Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 16 Sep. 2025 Pay Attention to What Works for Your Body Instead of eating according to rigid food rules, notice what foods and eating patterns actually feel good in your body. Sarah Anzlovar, Verywell Health, 16 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rigid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigid
Adjective
  • Sulfide electrolytes fall apart when exposed to humidity, demanding strict atmospheric controls during manufacturing.
    Tejasri Gururaj, Interesting Engineering, 18 Sep. 2025
  • Another 22% want innovation with strict risk controls.
    Lawrence Wintermeyer, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The Red Rocketeers were looking to bounce back after a tough loss against King Phillip, but the opponent was strong.
    Zachary McMahon, Boston Herald, 20 Sep. 2025
  • Lee described the rookies as tough competitors who displayed a championship mentality during their run to the summer league championship.
    Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 20 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • No matter what that campaign had brought it would be a celebration of all their hard work.
    Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 22 Sep. 2025
  • If Lamb is out, opposing defenses will likely clamp down a bit more with only Pickens to worry about as an explosive play threat, which means moving the chains will be a little harder for the rest of the offense.
    Max Dible, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Symptoms vary among people but can include fever, flu-like symptoms, headache, stiff neck, confusion and loss of balance.
    Matthew Robinson, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Sep. 2025
  • While the position of Miami mayor is officially nonpartisan, party affiliation could become a major sticking point in November, with some political insiders speculating that González’s stiffest competition is Higgins, a Democrat.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 23 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Many candidates are re-negotiating their job options given the tight market.
    Jennifer Liu, CNBC, 19 Sep. 2025
  • One thing to keep in mind is that at 79 inches wide, this bubbly two-seater demands a footprint and can be a bit tight in a very small space, especially when pulled out.
    Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 19 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Every credit card review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of credit card products.
    Ryley Amond, CNBC, 20 Sep. 2025
  • Instead, this is about rigorous proofs found in mathematical logic via algorithmic search.
    Byron Cook, Fortune, 20 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • This then begs the question, If there was a majority of Koreans who wanted social democratic style reforms, and their aspirations had the support of American and Korean reformers in the military government, why did South Korea end up with an authoritarian regime led by Syngman Rhee?
    Kornel Chang September 19, Literary Hub, 19 Sep. 2025
  • Paine, of course, marshalled the phrase in service of a radical anti-authoritarian movement.
    Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 19 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Between its solid ride quality, athletic power, and surprisingly fun handling dynamics, the 2025 Audi S5 is a solid modern European sports sedan.
    Peter Nelson, Forbes.com, 20 Sep. 2025
  • Shortly after taking the position, McMahon, who comes from many years of experience in the private sector, noted that DOGE was conducting a solid audit of the agency.
    Arthur Jones II, ABC News, 19 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Rigid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rigid. Accessed 24 Sep. 2025.

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