STRICTLY Synonyms: 11 Similar and Opposite Words

strictly

adverb

as in carefully

without any relaxation of standards or precision strictly speaking, Columbus did not discover America—the people living there had long known about it the rules must be strictly obeyed

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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 strictly Kabuki, for example, was strictly censored by Allied officials for the first few years of the occupation, owing to its characteristic themes of loyalty, vengeance, and honor. —

Joshua Hunt, Harpers Magazine, 24 Feb. 2026 Under the city’s registration rules, Johnson notes, short-term rentals are limited to a maximum of eight guests and parties are strictly prohibited. —

Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 24 Feb. 2026 But the process is cumbersome to navigate and strictly prohibits companies or researchers from profiting from treatments that haven’t been vetted by the FDA. —

CNN Money, 23 Feb. 2026 None of them would have emerged if researchers had stayed strictly within their original plans. —

Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 23 Feb. 2026 While choice is strictly limited—two starters, two mains, cheese or dessert—the produce is exceptional, from juicy scallops to John Dory cooked with tangy sorrel and crunchy samphire, sea asparagus, accompanied by a seasonal pumpkin purée. —

John Brunton, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Feb. 2026 And all of it is strictly out-of-pocket, no matter how great your guild insurance might be. —

Benjamin Svetkey, HollywoodReporter, 21 Feb. 2026 Students also are strictly prohibited from using cellphones or other electronic devices to take pictures or record school personnel or fellow students without authorization. —

Chuck Fieldman, Chicago Tribune, 21 Feb. 2026 Lighting isn’t strictly functional anymore. —

Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Feb. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for strictly

Adverb

But all that — along with the aura of fear and intimidation that Khamenei carefully cultivated — began to unravel in his final years.

— Abbas Al Lawati, CNN Money, 1 Mar. 2026
Judicial warrants should be carefully reviewed to confirm the issuing court, scope of authority, and the specific location or records referenced.

— Peter S. Sachs, Sun Sentinel, 1 Mar. 2026