strict

adjective

ˈstrikt How to pronounce strict (audio)
Definition of strictnext
1
as in accurate
following an original exactly not a strict translation, because a lot of the humor is in the wordplay

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in rigorous
given to exacting standards of discipline and self-restraint that piano teacher is notoriously strict, but students make great strides under her tutelage

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in rigid
not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards on a strict diet strict adherence to the letter of the law

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word strict distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of strict are rigid, rigorous, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could rigid be used to replace strict?

The synonyms rigid and strict are sometimes interchangeable, but rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for strict?

The words rigorous and strict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When is it sensible to use stringent instead of strict?

Although the words stringent and strict 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 strict Every lens test follows strict real-world testing, where every feature and all functions are tested to assess overall performance. —James Abbott, Space.com, 23 May 2025 Ultimately, the report recommends stricter oversight of charters and stronger protections for students and educators. —Nell Salzman, Chicago Tribune, 22 May 2025 With the support of this new community, Doris begins to rebel against her strict faith and conservative family in hopes of leading a life less ordinary. —Shannon Carlin, Time, 22 May 2025 Storm names are now maintained and updated through a strict procedure by the World Meteorological Organization. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for strict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for strict
  1. accurate
  2. rigorous
  3. rigid
  4. true
  5. harsh
  6. stringent
  7. careful
  8. authoritarian
Adjective
  • Forecasts will become less accurate in time, with people getting less lead time when inclement weather may impact their daily lives.
    — Bryan Karrick, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 May 2025
  • The ultra-wide camera retains steadiness but produces video with more accurate colors.
    — PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 29 May 2025
Definition of accurate
Adjective
  • Hall, a former college football player, is quite the athlete and also gives fans a look into his rigorous workout regimen, which Khaled joined him for.
    — Michael Saponara, Billboard, 23 May 2025
  • The Bee has a rigorous policy relating to requests for anonymity.
    — Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 23 May 2025
Definition of rigorous
Adjective
  • Mature systems progress from rigid, bespoke solutions to agile solutions that evolve with business needs.
    — Kyle Campos, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025
  • For boys, this issue is compounded by rigid ideas about masculinity that discourage emotional and physical closeness.
    — Ashleigh N. DeLuca, Parents, 29 May 2025
Definition of rigid
Adjective
  • The formula for ‘true tackles’ is slightly more long-winded: tackles + challenges lost + fouls committed.
    — Patrick Boyland, New York Times, 28 May 2025
  • Setbacks may tempt you to stray from your vision, but staying true to yourself attracts the right clients, collaborators and opportunities.
    — Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 27 May 2025
Definition of true
Adjective
  • In fact, all forms of Persian rap — from street rap and gangsta to philosophical and social hip-hop — were used in the service of protest, with many works accompanied by heavy beats, dark atmospheres, and harsh narrative styles.
    — Ali Farahmand, IndieWire, 23 May 2025
  • Padilla had harsh comments for the president and the GOP in a statement Thursday after the House vote.
    — David Lightman, Sacbee.com, 23 May 2025
Definition of harsh
Adjective
  • This supports meeting stringent regulatory requirements like HIPAA, GDPR, CMMC and PCI-DSS, even for AI/ML workloads with highly sensitive datasets.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025
  • The company sets stringent, but achievable, environmental and social criteria that drive meaningful change.
    — Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 19 May 2025
Definition of stringent
Adjective
  • To remove the paint from hinge mortises, remove the hinges and scrape away the paint using a 5-in-1 tool or a chisel, being careful not to cut into the wood itself.
    — Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 May 2025
  • Momentum is a real thing within the postseason, and if the Thunder aren't careful, Minnesota could sneak back into this matchup.
    — Matt Levine, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 May 2025
Definition of careful
Adjective
  • Panahi’s film, his first since being released from prison in 2023, is a direct assault on Iran’s authoritarian regime.
    — Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 24 May 2025
  • But this one rush job, HB 1205, was especially dear to the governor’s authoritarian heart.
    — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 24 May 2025
Definition of authoritarian

Browse Nearby Words

striating
strict
strictly
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Cite this Entry

“Strict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/strict. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.

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