Synonym Chooser

How is the word stringent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of stringent are rigid, rigorous, and strict. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

Where would rigid be a reasonable alternative to stringent?

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

rigid rules of conduct

When might rigorous be a better fit than stringent?

While the synonyms rigorous and stringent are close in meaning, rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When could strict be used to replace stringent?

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

strict enforcement of the law

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 stringent While others weaponize differences like caste and religion — especially when India’s stringent COVID-19 lockdowns hit — Chandan and Shoaib see their own struggles mirrored in each other and are only drawn closer. Proma Khosla, IndieWire, 25 Sep. 2025 The governor, a longtime ally of Big Tech, has been reticent to adopt stringent oversight. Lia Russell, Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 2025 Tested under stringent conditions, the new material endured more than 90,000 operating cycles, which is the equivalent of 25,000 hours of continuous truck operation, while still outperforming current DOE targets. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 24 Sep. 2025 Wang witnessed how the stringent COVID measures sparked rare protests and the government's eventual change of course in late 2022. Vincent Ni, NPR, 20 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stringent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stringent
Adjective
  • Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy.
    Rob Williams, EverydayHealth.com, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Article 3 Section 5 of the Tennessee Constitution places strict limitations on the regular circumstances under which a governor can deploy guard troops.
    Vivian Jones, Nashville Tennessean, 9 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Here’s how all four teams look heading into their Championship Series, along with some rigorous, confident analysis for each team.
    Grant Brisbee, New York Times, 12 Oct. 2025
  • Whereas degree programs have to go through rigorous faculty and administrative oversight, which can take years, non-degree programs don’t require the same kind of oversight.
    Chris Quintana, USA Today, 12 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Stringent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stringent. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on stringent

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