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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 Any strike would be preceded by a 10-day notice to the hospital systems, who oppose the union’s preferred approach to staffing levels: strict nurse-patient ratios. Mary Divine, Twin Cities, 27 June 2025 But the plaintiffs in the case and the Biden administration said the appeals court was wrong to apply that standard and should have instead analyzed it under the most demanding level, strict scrutiny, because the law impedes adults' access to speech protected by the Constitution. June 27, CBS News, 27 June 2025 Rocket exports are subject to strict controls because of the potential military applications of that technology. ArsTechnica, 27 June 2025 For Yong — strict parents inadvertently helped spark a passion for the category. Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for strict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for strict
Adjective
  • Bottom line: Even when data show that generative AI is more accurate, patients still want to talk with a human when facing complex or life-threatening decisions.
    Robert Pearl, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
  • But even if Trump’s characterization turns out to be accurate, the destruction of Iran’s nuclear facilities may not mean the end of the Iranian nuclear threat.
    Matthew Chance, CNN Money, 23 June 2025
Adjective
  • Experimental adoption is fine, as long as it's paired with rigorous due diligence and clearly defined outcomes.
    Stephanie Domas, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • She’s also developed a rigorous skincare routine because her treatments leave her with chemotherapy rash.
    Jillian Frankel, People.com, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • First, consider dynamic withdrawal strategies that adjust based on portfolio performance, rather than rigid rules.
    Bruce Helmer, Twin Cities, 21 June 2025
  • Because questioning takes courage, especially in rigid hierarchies.
    Oscar Chavez-Arrieta, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • Be open to what needs to be dismantled in order to build something stronger and more aligned with your true path in the future.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025
  • Country singer Gavin Adcock proved that to still be true by slamming the March 2024 LP, which is charting ahead of his forthcoming effort, Own Worst Enemy, during a rant at his recent concert.
    Armon Sadler, VIBE.com, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Come spring, the Ranger III carries everything from outhouses and diesel fuel for the generators to construction supplies to repair whatever damage Mother Nature did to facilities over the harsh winter.
    Diana Lambdin Meyer, USA Today, 28 June 2025
  • Yet the harshest critic is often the one in the mirror.
    Cheryl Robinson, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • The Fed subjects those banks to more stringent capital requirements in case of another financial crisis — somewhere between 1% to 4.5% on top of emergency fund requirements that all large banks must adhere to.
    Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 26 June 2025
  • However, this rapid surge goes hand in hand with the evolution of stringent compliance standards imposed by regulatory authorities to promote fairness and protect users.
    Dzmitry Lubneuski, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
Adjective
  • If allowed, Andrew will likely bring further reputational damage to the monarchy at a time when the royal ship needs a careful steer.
    Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025
  • In reality, Israel overpowered Iran’s military and outwitted its intelligence with stunning efficiency, demonstrating years, if not decades, of careful preparation in under two weeks.
    Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Defending institutions of higher education from increasingly authoritarian measures is an important way to safeguard not only academic freedom, but the legacy of 1776 as well.
    Time, Time, 1 July 2025
  • Even among authoritarian regimes, differences in values can limit cooperation.
    Leon Aron, The Atlantic, 29 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Strict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/strict. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

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