Synonyms of stringent

stringent

adjective

ˈstrin-jənt 

as in strict

not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards

stringent rules against unauthorized persons being in the building

Synonyms & Similar Words

• strict
• rigorous
• rigid
• exacting
• uncompromising
• hard-line
• inflexible
• steadfast
• meticulous
• conscientious
• adamant
• cast-iron
• scrupulous
• relentless
• punctilious
• exact
• painstaking
• stubborn
• brassbound
• close
• undeviating
• unbending
• tough
• tenacious
• harsh
• fussy
• determined
• resolved
• unflinching
• severe
• dogged
• unrelenting
• adamantine
• stern
• implacable
• demanding
• unyielding
• firm
• austere
• unsparing
• single-minded
• hardened
• immovable
• grim
• hard
• flinty
• unappeasable
• ironbound
• hard-hearted

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• lax
• flexible
• loose
• relaxed
• slack
• compliant
• mild
• lenient
• gentle
• easy
• yielding
• pliant
• pliable
• acquiescent
• soft
• tolerant
• indulgent
• merciful
• kindly
• easygoing
• compromising
• negligent
• sloppy
• slipshod
• neglectful
• relenting
• slovenly
• remiss
• spoiling
• pampering
• unfussy

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

Recent Examples of stringent

In this more stringent environment, fintech leaders are wise to double down on compliance and ethical practices. —Aj Dhaliwal, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026

That was the slowest quarterly growth since late 2022, when China was beginning to loosen stringent COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. —Chan Ho-Him, Los Angeles Times, 20 Jan. 2026

The drawbacks are equally stark — complex workflows, high equipment costs, wet-chemical handling, and stringent contamination control, as copper ions can be fatal to silicon devices if mismanaged. —Ni Tao, Interesting Engineering, 19 Jan. 2026

Herman said in many ways, the state law is more stringent than the Clean Water Act, so even if the EPA bows out of regulating Southern California’s ditch system, the state’s rules might prevent pollution from flowing. —Andre Mouchard, Oc Register, 18 Jan. 2026

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