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Synonym Chooser

How is the word rigorous distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigorous are rigid, strict, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When can rigid be used instead of rigorous?

While in some cases nearly identical to rigorous, rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would strict be a good substitute for rigorous?

Although the words strict and rigorous have much in common, strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When might stringent be a better fit than rigorous?

The synonyms stringent and rigorous are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 rigorous All caregivers go through a rigorous screening process that includes background checks, reference checks and in-depth interviews, according to Leonard. Lisa Thorn, The Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2025 The two unions, which between them represent hundreds of thousands of New York City workers and are known to launch rigorous get-out-the-vote efforts, endorsed the mayor in the 2021 election and were seen as key to his narrow victory in that race. Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News, 21 Feb. 2025 Using rigorous logical frameworks and Turing-computable methods, BigGraph ensures trustworthy, adaptable outcomes that align with business needs. Jason Phillips, USA TODAY, 15 Feb. 2025 That is thanks to many decades of rigorous bank supervision and regulation, as well as federal deposit insurance. Felix Salmon, Axios, 14 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rigorous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigorous
Adjective
  • The Parisian bob, however, is a looser, less strict rendition, with a longer length and a wispier take on bangs—or without them entirely.
    Elle Turner, Glamour, 1 Mar. 2025
  • Four years on—late in 2024 but well in advance of the Type 00’s public debut in Miami—Robb Report was invited to Gaydon to see the result under conditions of the strictest secrecy.
    Ben Oliver, Robb Report, 1 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • But new correspondence with The Times raises questions about whether that narrative is accurate, or if Bass is withholding public records.
    Julia Wick, Los Angeles Times, 8 Mar. 2025
  • Enhanced Decision Making Centralized content management enhances decision making by giving employees access to accurate, up-to-date information far quicker.
    Daniel Fallmann, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Transparency is crucial as well as regular audits and compliance with regulations, including the GDPR and CCPA, will be important to ensure that customers' data are properly handled and the most stringent ethical standards are upheld.
    Kolawole Samuel Adebayo, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
  • Due to this year’s more stringent requirements, there were fewer applications and there was a net loss of 80 châteaus from the 250 in 2020.
    Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 9 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • But their happy romance is soon demolished when Jenny reappears in their lives, thrusting all three into a difficult and messy journey towards true accountability and adulthood.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 7 Mar. 2025
  • These protein complexes are highly shape-shifting, making traditional imaging methods very difficult.
    Priyanka Naik, The Conversation, 7 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Schneider wants to take calculated risks in free agency, but that can be tough to do when Seattle is one of many teams needing interior offensive upgrades.
    Michael-Shawn Dugar, The Athletic, 11 Mar. 2025
  • The New York Fed survey of consumer expectations showed respondents believe tougher economic conditions are ahead.
    Courtenay Brown, Axios, 11 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • In addition, Ukraine has relied on U.S. intelligence data for conducting some of its precise strikes on Russian troop concentrations in occupied territories.
    Katya Soldak, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025
  • The iterative competition has made the cars faster, the batteries lighter and more powerful, and the software more precise.
    Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Global hiring can offer a fresh solution in these challenging times.
    James Peters, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2025
  • Lawn mowers play a significant role in landscaping and choosing the right one can be challenging.
    BestReviews, The Mercury News, 10 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The Patriots are paying for potential more than immediate production, so the F grade feels harsh.
    Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 12 Mar. 2025
  • Five years ago this week, the television industry rose to the challenge of keeping news, daytime and late-night talk shows and other topical series on the air during the harsh early months of the COVID pandemic.
    Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 12 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Rigorous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rigorous. Accessed 16 Mar. 2025.

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