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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 Increasing access to rigorous Cambridge curriculum the past three years and exhibiting strong student performance on Cambridge exams; and demonstrating the district’s dedication to expanding access to high-quality education for all students. Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Apr. 2025 The proposal to reincorporate to a Nevada corporation was recommended following a rigorous and thoughtful analysis by our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee and our Board of Directors. Lee Habeeb, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Apr. 2025 Every tax article is based on rigorous reporting by expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of tax products. Brian Sloan, CNBC, 27 Mar. 2025 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 See All Example Sentences for rigorous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigorous
Adjective
  • Some venues, such as London's fabric, encourage a phone-free environment through guidance rather than strict enforcement.
    John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Apr. 2025
  • First, monitor how Asian hubs respond to the surprising success of Singapore’s stricter regime - will Hong Kong double down on flexibility or pivot toward stability?
    Francois Botha, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • But the ability to navigate this uncertainty depends on high-quality, accurate data—particularly supplier master data—which is easier said than done.
    Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Garland handed the character work of directing to Mendoza to honor the project’s one abiding rule: sticking without exception to an utterly accurate recounting.
    Fred Schruers, IndieWire, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Supplements have less stringent regulations and are not FDA-approved.
    Jessica Swirble, Verywell Health, 4 Apr. 2025
  • Safety rating All reputable manufacturers sell only booster seats that have passed stringent safety tests administered by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 3 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Third, operational command of Kamikaze planes is difficult because results cannot be evaluated with any accuracy.
    CBS News, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2025
  • Instead, the major drama comes in the form of Ivy’s corruption by her acting coach, as Ivy gradually goes method and becomes as difficult to work with as Marilyn was (one of this musical’s many meta moments).
    Christian Lewis, Variety, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • 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
  • After some tough matchups in the Trader Joe’s Elite Sweets Tournament, one classic emerged as the champion.
    Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The precise extent of the cancellations and the specific products affected remain unclear.
    Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Evaluating sea-level rise impact zones: The Navigator enables precise mapping of low-lying coastal areas at risk from rising sea levels.
    Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report, FOXNews.com, 10 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Assessing type A skills of collaboration solely from resumes can be challenging.
    Ming-Chien Chyu, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • But in more challenging economic times, homeowners are seeking ways to make upgrades without breaking the bank.
    Janeé Bolden, Essence, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Donald Trump defended his harsh new tariffs on Saturday Night Live this week — and maybe took a swipe at last week’s musical guest, too.
    Dave Nemetz, TVLine, 5 Apr. 2025
  • When the father tried to explain himself, the women criticized him for being too harsh.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 4 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Rigorous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rigorous. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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