Definition of rigorousnext
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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 Applications are quite rigorous by elementary school standards. Austin Horn july 1, Miami Herald, 1 July 2026 The Hoka Clifton 10 Sneakers were put through rigorous testing by InStyle reviewer Danielle R. Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 1 July 2026 The arbitrary classification defies public health knowledge and ignores decades of rigorous health services literature. David S. Shapiro, STAT, 30 June 2026 According to Lacey, who helped set up the Code Four program last year, enforcing the law requires a clear grasp of ethics and a rigorous attention to detail to make sure the job is done well. Noah Daly june 26, Idaho Statesman, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for rigorous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigorous
Adjective
  • California has strict fireworks laws because of the combination of fire danger and population, Berlant said.
    Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • In whatever role, expect Teng to be on a strict innings limit and pitch count for his next few outings at Triple-A Sugar Land.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.
    Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • Television executives say those viewers have always been watching at bars, restaurants and other locations, so now the ratings are a more accurate reflection of the real audience size.
    Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Regulatory Compliance As privacy and security regulations become more stringent, organizations will need stronger methods for proving access integrity and identity assurance.
    Sagar Gupta, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • The bill would impose stringent voting rules, including eliminating mail ballots, with some exceptions, and set voter ID and proof-of-citizenship requirements.
    Melissa Quinn, CBS News, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Sarah Buck, Chicago Driving has become harder The rapid increase in bike lanes has made driving much more difficult and tedious, with numerous delays due to many streets being reduced to one lane in busy areas.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • Republican strategists have welcomed those nominations as an opening for attack in a difficult election year.
    Susan Page, USA Today, 5 July 2026
Adjective
  • MacDonald agrees that some of Kiros' positions could put Democratic candidates in a tough spot.
    Shaun Boyd, CBS News, 2 July 2026
  • The 34 measures include cuts to income tax for low- and middle income families, an overhaul of the creaking pension system, tougher rules for employees' sick leave and a reduction of the country's stifling bureaucracy.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Researchers think this is because walking is a highly dynamic behaviour that requires precise timing across both sides of the body.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 1 July 2026
  • Financial markets depend on precise timing to synchronize transactions.
    Mariam Sorond, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • This enduring legacy, underscores the lawyer's role as an officer of the court, preserving the rule of law even when challenging authority.
    Joseph Andrew, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
  • Educate your family on our country’s history, both good and challenging.
    Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • White settlers and frontier pioneers built vast, fenceless cattle stations, battling harsh environments and disease, embracing a hard-living culture that exists to this day.
    Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 5 July 2026
  • Dish Soap Using harsh chemicals on the outside of your toilet bowl and fixtures is not recommended, according to Meagher.
    Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 4 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rigorous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rigorous. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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