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Synonym Chooser

How is the word rigid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigid are rigorous, strict, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for rigid?

The synonyms rigorous and rigid are sometimes interchangeable, but rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When might strict be a better fit than rigid?

The words strict and rigid can be used in similar contexts, but strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could stringent be used to replace rigid?

Although the words stringent and rigid have much in common, stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

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 rigid But recoveries are routinely stymied by a widespread constraint in health insurance policies: rigid caps on therapy sessions. Jordan Rau, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2025 Sea lions and dolphins have been observed rigid with seizures, acting dazed and confused. Susanne Rust, Los Angeles Times, 26 Mar. 2025 True teams integrate diverse perspectives across functions and levels, aligning around a shared purpose rather than rigid structures. Keith Ferrazzi, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025 Candidates overly focused on titles, rigid job descriptions, or chain of command may struggle in a fast-changing environment. Abdo Riani, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rigid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigid
Adjective
  • The reporting requirements for school officials who suspect abuse have become stricter in the last 20 years, Pernerewski notes.
    Lauren Mascarenhas, CNN, 23 Mar. 2025
  • For instance, while Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert may try to adhere to a strict framing, Mulaney prefers a more meandering format between himself and announcer Richard Kind.
    Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 23 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • But the Lotus ladies will have some tough competition, including seven-time winner Allison Janney, two-time winner Patricia Arquette, and potential double nominee Kaitlyn Dever.
    Kristen Baldwin, EW.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • That’s likely a tough pill to swallow for Gomez, who typically launches her albums at No. 1.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Sandoval has received some pay bumps, including a temporary $10,000-a-year bonus for Hawaii special education teachers designed to alleviate shortages in that and other hard-to-staff areas.
    Alia Wong, USA TODAY, 14 Feb. 2023
  • Die-hard Chiefs fan Paul Rudd was on the field before the game, sporting a big smile and a team jersey.
    Andrew Dalton, Fortune, 13 Feb. 2023
Adjective
  • Both have long been interested in the payments sector—Musk’s X has acquired money transmitter licenses in many states, while Facebook tried to launch its own cryptocurrency, Libra, in 2019 before facing stiff criticism and regulatory scrutiny.
    Andrew R. Chow, Time, 4 Apr. 2025
  • Swank is currently predicted to face stiff competition in the guest actress category, particularly from standout performers in some of this year’s top series contenders.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This wood is chosen for its tight grain and natural flavor compounds, such as lignin and tannins.
    Emily Price, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • The following are the three main types to choose from: Small cat trees are affordable and ideal for tight living quarters.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • These competitions are known for their rigorous judging processes and high standards, making their results highly respected in the wine industry.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
  • By committing to transparency, upholding rigorous standards, and fostering open engagement, news organizations can rebuild their relationship with the public.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Other writers and artists have also begun to mine this era for clues to China’s current authoritarian malaise.
    Ian Johnson, The Atlantic, 27 Mar. 2025
  • Since taking office just a few weeks ago, President Trump has rapidly depleted the reservoir of America’s soft power with an authoritarian bent and astonishing speed.
    Penny Abeywardena, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Some solid bench play, in contrast with only two Nuggets reserves scoring.
    Anthony Slater, New York Times, 5 Apr. 2025
  • An excellent 94% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid enough 74% audience score.
    Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Rigid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rigid. Accessed 9 Apr. 2025.

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