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 Beijing's testbed for stablecoin Chinese government has traditionally imposed stringent restrictions on crypto activity, citing concerns over financial stability, fraud and capital flight. Anniek Bao, CNBC, 1 Aug. 2025 Back then, the Kim regime was dealing with a stringent United Nations Security Council sanctions regime that limited the North’s ability to import and export key goods. Daniel Depetris, Twin Cities, 31 July 2025 In 2021, following a public meeting held about turbulence, the NTSB made recommendations to the FAA to be more stringent about fastening seat belts for both flight attendants and passengers while flying near thunderstorms and under 20,000 feet. Colson Thayer, People.com, 29 July 2025 However, LLMs are still really experimental, so they should be used with stringent oversight. Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 20 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for stringent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stringent
Adjective
  • Although House rules allow members of Congress to provide gifts to other members, there is strict guidance on the appearance of impropriety and required disclosures.
    Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Aug. 2025
  • In addition to broadening Opinel's appeal in jurisdictions with strict regulations on locking knives, the Opiflex mechanism is designed to streamline blade opening and closing for fast, intuitive knife use.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 16 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • While the certification was not specifically a result of litigation, pursuing rigorous, third-party validation of AI practices is increasingly viewed as an industry best practice.
    Marc Blythe, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2025
  • Every insurance article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of insurance products.
    Liz Knueven, CNBC, 15 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Stringent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stringent. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

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