STRINGENT Synonyms: 80 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

stringent

adjective

ˈstrin-jənt

Definition of stringent

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as in strict

not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards stringent rules against unauthorized persons being in the building

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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

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 stringent Immigrant advocates worry that his new administration will encourage local governments to defy the law and that many residents remain at risk without more stringent protections. —Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 4 Mar. 2025 Samuels’s role as vice-chair would soon go to a Republican commissioner, who would likely have a more stringent interpretation of what constituted discrimination or harassment. —E. Tammy Kim, The New Yorker, 4 Mar. 2025 Diagnostic ports were mandated as part of a drive for more stringent vehicle emissions standards—check engine lights are typically related to a vehicle’s intake or exhaust systems—with the intention of keeping these complicated parts owner-serviceable. —Wes Siler, Outside Online, 2 Mar. 2025 Under the Clean Air Act, California has the authority to request waivers from the EPA to establish more stringent vehicle emissions standards than those at the federal level. —Ari Plachta, Sacramento Bee, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stringent