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

The European Union's AI Act already classifies hiring under its high-risk category with stringent restrictions. —ArsTechnica, 24 June 2025

McIntire remains out on bond under stringent conditions. —David Hudnall, Kansas City Star, 23 June 2025

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

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