Synonym Chooser

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 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 Instead of dictating stringent requirements to contractors and purchasing the satellites outright, the Space Force will levy fewer requirements and select a commercial company to develop the next generation of GSSAP satellites. ArsTechnica, 19 May 2025 The company sets stringent, but achievable, environmental and social criteria that drive meaningful change. Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 19 May 2025 Starting the clock in 1980 is rhetorically convenient because inequality was then unusually low, following decades of steep taxation and stringent regulation that had dampened entrepreneurship and curtailed many ambitious career paths. Daniel Waldenstrom, Foreign Affairs, 19 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for stringent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stringent
Adjective
  • No new stores that sell certain pets will be allowed to open in Manatee County and existing pet sellers and breeders will face stricter regulations under new rules passed unanimously Tuesday by county leaders.
    Ryan Ballogg, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 June 2025
  • There is a strict bag policy in place at the stadium, and all restrictions will be enforced.
    Caché McClay, USA Today, 5 June 2025
Adjective
  • These days, most people delivering your forecasts are scientists with rigorous training in calculus, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, atmospheric physics and the other meteorological coursework.
    Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
  • The Council for Higher Education Accreditation ensures accrediting agencies uphold rigorous standards.
    Hanna Park, CNN Money, 5 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Stringent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stringent. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on stringent

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