RIGOROUS Synonyms: 239 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'rigorous' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigorous are rigid , strict , and stringent . While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty. // the rigorous training of recruits

Q: When can 'rigid' be used instead of 'rigorous'?

While in some cases nearly identical to rigorous , rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility. // rigid rules of conduct

Q: When would 'strict' be a good substitute for 'rigorous'?

Although the words strict and rigorous have much in common, strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements. // strict enforcement of the law

Q: When might 'stringent' be a better fit than 'rigorous'?

The synonyms stringent and rigorous are sometimes interchangeable, but stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation. // stringent standards of admission

rigorous

adjective

ˈri-g(ə-)rəs

Definition of rigorous next

as in strict

given to exacting standards of discipline and self-restraint a rigorous football coach who pushes his players to their physical and mental limits

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in accurate

meeting the highest standard of accuracy a rigorous analysis of the data

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in stringent

not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards a rigorous diet and exercise regimen

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as in difficult

requiring considerable physical or mental effort studied for umpteen months for the rigorous exam

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word rigorous distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigorous are rigid, strict, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When can rigid be used instead of rigorous?

While in some cases nearly identical to rigorous, rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would strict be a good substitute for rigorous?

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

strict enforcement of the law

When might stringent be a better fit than rigorous?

The synonyms stringent and rigorous are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 rigorous Each participant went through a rigorous selection process and was ultimately selected from 20 finalists who met with a final selection committee. —

Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 13 Feb. 2025 Cassidy’s professed belief in Kennedy’s leadership offers a soothing vision: Imagine Americans whose views on the public-health establishment have been deeply eroded over time, all with their faith restored in one of the world’s most rigorous scientific institutions thanks to a radical outsider. —

Nicholas Florko, The Atlantic, 13 Feb. 2025 On iOS, the malware is often embedded within apps that initially pass Apple’s rigorous review process but later introduce harmful functionality through updates. —

Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 13 Feb. 2025 The Trump administration’s effort to end DEI programs is really an attack on decades of efforts by the federal government to make good on the promise of America: to engage in rigorous nondiscrimination efforts and open up opportunities for all. —

Philip Klinkner, The Conversation, 13 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for rigorous

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigorous

Adjective

The state, through the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD), mandates that health care facilities meet strict seismic safety standards.

— Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 16 Feb. 2025
Congress can revise eligibility for welfare benefits and impose stricter time limits, alleviating the cost to taxpayers and reducing incentives to enter the country illegally.

— Betsy McCaughey, Boston Herald, 15 Feb. 2025