Definition of strictnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word strict distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of strict are rigid, rigorous, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could rigid be used to replace strict?

The synonyms rigid and strict are sometimes interchangeable, but rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for strict?

The words rigorous and strict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When is it sensible to use stringent instead of strict?

Although the words stringent and strict 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 strict Marty Bruemmel, executive director of the Greater Hyannis Chamber of Commerce, told the Boston Herald that the challenges faced by Massachusetts businesses — high state taxes, strict regulations and other policies — can’t be ignored. Editorial, Boston Herald, 8 Feb. 2026 These bills focus on centralizing regulatory power at the state level, specifically to protect religious exercise and streamline certain property and business regulations by preventing local governments from imposing stricter rules. Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Feb. 2026 Cases like this highlight the critical advantages of regulated iGaming, where strict oversight and close coordination with law enforcement protect consumers far more than unregulated alternatives. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 7 Feb. 2026 Health insurance coverage of any medical service, including music therapy, is governed by strict requirements for necessity, cost and outcomes for clients. Reylee Billingsley, AZCentral.com, 7 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for strict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for strict
Adjective
  • Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.
    Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Federal data is fluid and frequently subject to change as more detailed and accurate information becomes available.
    Alicia Wallace, CNN Money, 11 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Every savings article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of banking products.
    Andreina Rodriguez, CNBC, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Fairlife protein shake The Fairlife Core Power protein shake is an excellent workout supplement for those looking to boost muscle recovery following rigorous exercise.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 6 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The mechanical layout provides sufficient reach and flexibility to manipulate soft materials, which is significantly more challenging than handling rigid objects, reports Techeblog.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 10 Feb. 2026
  • If the plan is to adorn the tank with hiding places or other interactive pieces, steer clear of sharp or rigid objects.
    Sierra Leone Starks, Parents, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • That’s true, even though the odds of getting hurt during travel are generally higher when driving.
    Caitlin McGlade, Charlotte Observer, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Exercises like Aron’s 36 questions are designed to reveal the most interesting, truest things about a person, and self‑ disclosure, trust building, and mutual appreciation accelerate closeness.
    Big Think, Big Think, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The energy output is designed to remain stable down to –50 degrees Celsius, supporting reliable operation in some of the harshest climates on Earth, reports InsideEVs.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Rapinchuk recommends only using non-toxic products when cleaning your refrigerator and avoiding anything with harsh chemicals, such as bleach and ammonia.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • As part of its analysis of the project, DEEP also determined the addition of the two new compressors would not meet the threshold for a major modification — which is subject to more stringent review — because the increase in ozone-forming pollutants would not exceed 25 tons per year.
    John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Successful leverage of the First Sale doctrine can significantly reduce tariff costs, though companies will need to meet the stringent conditions of the rule and provide extensive documentation of all transactions to CBP.
    Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 6 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • But turning this moment into lasting advantage will require careful planning, not just short-term opportunism.
    Yinka Adegoke, semafor.com, 7 Feb. 2026
  • Be careful when handling debris that may have blown into your yard.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 7 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Rezwan Shahriar Sumit’s Master, tracing the rise of a teacher drawn into local politics in Bangladesh and moving from idealism to authoritarian impulses, won the Big Screen Competition.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 6 Feb. 2026
  • What is unique in this moment is how aggressively one political party is leveraging this and the ends to which it is being used, which is to overthrow democracy and to install an authoritarian regime.
    Anne Applebaum, The Atlantic, 6 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Strict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/strict. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026.

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