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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Examples 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 The survey was carried out online and meets rigorous quality standards. —

Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 2 Nov. 2024 My unit is still going strong despite daily, rigorous use. —

Brenda Stolyar, WIRED, 2 Nov. 2024 Every retirement article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of investing products. —

Elizabeth Gravier, CNBC, 1 Nov. 2024 That’s the rigorous—or narrow-minded—judgment that . . . —

Gordon Hughes, Artforum, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rigorous

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigorous

Adjective

On-Premises Solutions: For businesses with strict data privacy needs, on-premises hosting provides more control.

Abhishek Shivanna, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Anywhere inside those boundaries is a strict no-photo zone.

Zach Bradshaw, The Arizona Republic, 5 Nov. 2024