Rigorous: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when describing something that requires thoroughness, strict precision, or exhaustive efforts. Often used in academic, scientific, or professional contexts.

• The study underwent rigorous peer review before publication.
• Rigorous testing ensured the software was free of bugs.

Often used to describe rules, standards, or behaviors that are very rigid and must be followed closely. It can carry a negative connotation if it implies harshness.

• The school has strict rules about attendance.
• Her parents are very strict and do not allow her out late.

Use when describing something that is very accurate and exact in details. Suitable for contexts where small differences matter greatly.

• He gave me precise directions to his house.
• The instructions must be followed in precise order.

Best used when referring to someone who pays great attention to detail. Often carries a positive connotation.

• She is meticulous in her work, checking every detail twice.
• His meticulous planning ensured the event went smoothly.

Use when emphasizing precision and accuracy with no room for error. Often used in mathematical or scientific contexts.

• We need the exact measurements for the construction plan.
• Her exact words were 'I will not attend the meeting.'

Best used to describe tasks, jobs, or people that require a lot of effort, attention, or skill. This word often connotes difficulty and pressure.

• The new project is very demanding and requires long hours.
• His boss is extremely demanding, always expecting perfection.

Used in academic or testing scenarios where high standards and thoroughness are essential.

• The research underwent rigorous peer review before publication.
• The training program requires rigorous testing to ensure all participants are competent.

Used when describing something inflexible or unchanging, often with negative connotations.

• The company's rigid policies leave little room for innovation.
• The schedule was so rigid that any delays created major issues.

Used when describing measures, requirements, or rules that are extremely strict or precise, often in official or formal settings.

• The new environmental regulations are very stringent.
• The project had to meet stringent safety standards.

Used when describing a person or their expression as serious, strict, and without humor, often with a slightly negative implication.

• The teacher gave them a stern look when they started talking during the lesson.
• His stern demeanor made everyone in the room fall silent.

Used to describe something that is hard to deal with, which could apply to situations, tasks, or personalities; less formal than the others.

• The exam was really tough, but I managed to pass.
• She's a tough negotiator who never backs down.

Used when enforcing rules or standards firmly, especially in educational or parental contexts.

• Her parents were very strict about her curfew.
• The school has strict policies on attendance.

This word is often used in academic, scientific, or professional settings when emphasizing thoroughness, accuracy, and strict standards.

• She conducted a rigorous analysis of the data.
• The training program is extremely rigorous.

Employ this term when referring to reasoning that is based on clear, sound principles or when something makes intuitive sense.

• Her solution to the issue was logical.
• It is logical to assume that prices will rise.

This word is suitable when characterizing a systematic and orderly approach, often in work processes or problem-solving.

• He is very methodical in his work.
• The investigation was carried out in a methodical manner.

This term is appropriate when referring to a structured, planned approach that follows a set method or procedure.

• They took a systematic approach to the problem.
• The study was conducted in a systematic way.

Use this word to describe actions or decisions that are fair, sensible, and justified.

• Her request for a raise was reasonable.
• It's reasonable to assume that he will be late.

Use this word when describing something that is logically connected and easy to understand, often in writing, speech, or arguments.

• His essay was clear and coherent.
• She presented a coherent argument for the new policy.