RIGOROUS Synonyms: 239 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: When can 'rigid' be used instead of 'rigorous'?

While in some cases nearly identical to rigorous , rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility. // rigid rules of conduct

Q: 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

Q: 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

rigorous

adjective

ˈri-g(ə-)rəs

Definition of rigorous next

as in strict

given to exacting standards of discipline and self-restraint a rigorous football coach who pushes his players to their physical and mental limits

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in accurate

meeting the highest standard of accuracy a rigorous analysis of the data

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in stringent

not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards a rigorous diet and exercise regimen

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as in difficult

requiring considerable physical or mental effort studied for umpteen months for the rigorous exam

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Such were the rigorous games of 1-on-1-on-1 that the trio of brothers routinely played on the court inside their Denver condominium complex. —

Kyle Newman, The Denver Post, 18 Jan. 2025 And their unions, including the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the Transport Workers Union, have raised concerns that workers abroad are not subject to the same rigorous standards as those in the United States. —

Niraj Chokshi, New York Times, 17 Jan. 2025 Brands that used natural and organic ingredients and conducted third-party lab testing received higher rankings for ensuring their products met rigorous standards. —

Rowan Briggs, The Mercury News, 17 Jan. 2025 The Kings hadn’t played since their double-overtime win over the Miami Heat on Monday, leaving three days between games, which likely would have meant at least one rigorous practice with Brown at the helm. —

Chris Biderman, Sacramento Bee, 11 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for rigorous

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigorous

Adjective

His remarkable physique is a testament to that strict regimen.

— The Athletic UK Staff, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025
This story incorporates reporting from KNOE, The Sun, ABC Columbia and Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati. Spirit Airlines has revised its policies to enforce a stricter dress code for passengers.

— Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 24 Jan. 2025