strict
strict
Definition & meaning
The word strict in French is primarily used to describe something or someone that adheres closely to rules, logic, or a specific standard without deviation. It has three main nuances:
- Severity in discipline: It describes a person or an authority that requires absolute obedience and does not tolerate many exceptions. For example, a "professeur strict" is one who enforces rules firmly.
- Rigidity of rules or conditions: It refers to laws, principles, or requirements that are applied exactly as written, without flexibility. For instance, a "règle stricte" must be followed to the letter.
- Precision and exactness: It is used to define a limit or a specific sense of a word. In the phrase "au sens strict," it indicates the narrowest, most literal interpretation of a concept, excluding any figurative or broad meanings. It can also refer to the absolute minimum required, as in "le strict nécessaire."
Grammar & Word origin
The word strict is an adjective. In French, it changes its form based on the gender and number of the noun it modifies:
- Masculine singular: strict
- Feminine singular: stricte
- Masculine plural: stricts
- Feminine plural: strictes
The word originates from the Latin strictus, which is the past participle of stringere, meaning "to draw tight" or "to bind." This etymological root highlights the idea of something being "tightened" or constrained, leaving no room for looseness or error.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms
- Regarding severity: sévère, exigeant, austère
- Regarding rules or precision: rigoureux, exact, précis, draconien
- Regarding limitation: étroit (as in "un sens étroit")
Antonyms
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Examples
Ce professeur est très strict avec nous.adjective
This teacher is very strict with us.
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