Stringency: meaning, definitions and examples

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stringency

[ˈstrɪn.dʒən.si ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

government regulations

The quality or condition of being strict, precise, or exacting.

Synonyms

exactness, rigor, strictness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stringency	Often used in formal or technical contexts to refer to strict control, tight regulations, or severe austerity. The stringency of the new financial regulations made compliance difficult for small businesses The stringency of the lockdown measures ensured that the virus was contained effectively
strictness	Can be used across various contexts including parenting, rules, and regulations. Indicates firmness or rigidity in adherence to rules. The strictness of the school's dress code was a topic of debate among students Her strictness as a parent sometimes bordered on excessive
rigor	Generally used in academic, scientific, or critical contexts to denote thoroughness, meticulousness, or harshness in methods and standards. The rigor of the scientific process ensures reliable results The professor was known for the rigor of his grading standards, which pushed students to excel
exactness	Used when referring to precision, accuracy, or the need for detail in actions or measurements. The exactness required in the experiment was overwhelming The architect prided himself on the exactness of every detail in his designs

Examples of usage

The stringency of the new safety regulations is causing some businesses to struggle.
The stringency of the border controls has increased due to the recent security threats.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

scientific research

The degree to which something must be met or complied with, such as standards or criteria.

Synonyms

rigor, severity, strictness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stringency	Appropriate when referring to the level of strictness or precision applied to rules, regulations, or standards. The stringency of the new safety regulations has significantly reduced workplace accidents
severity	Typically refers to the harshness, intensity, or seriousness of something, often with a negative connotation. Can be used in contexts related to punishment or conditions. The severity of the punishment was questioned by many who believed it was too harsh for the crime committed
strictness	Highlights the stringent enforcement of rules or standards, often in a regulatory or disciplinary context. Implies a firm but not necessarily harsh approach. The strictness of the teacher’s classroom rules helped maintain order and respect among the students
rigor	Used to describe thoroughness and an extreme attention to detail. Often applies to academic or scientific work, emphasizing strict standards and methodology. The research was conducted with academic rigor, ensuring the results are reliable and valid

Examples of usage

The stringency of the peer review process ensures high-quality research publications.
The stringency of the experimental protocols is crucial for reliable results.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'stringentem', meaning 'tightening' or 'binding'.
It became part of the English language in the late 16th century, reflecting a sense of strictness.
Before it described rules, the term was often used to denote physical tightness, like a string being pulled.

Economics

During economic crises, policymakers might apply stringency in fiscal policy to reduce spending and control inflation.
In banking, stringent regulations can prevent risky lending practices, maintaining financial stability.
Countries may impose stringent trade regulations to protect local industries from foreign competition.

Education

Stringent academic standards can help maintain the quality of education and ensure that students meet necessary competencies.
Admissions processes at prestigious universities often involve stringent requirements such as high test scores and extensive extracurriculars.
In some educational systems, stringent grading policies can impact students' mental health and motivation.

Health & Safety

Stringent health regulations in restaurants ensure food safety and public health are upheld.
During pandemics, governments may implement stringent health measures to prevent the spread of diseases.
Stringency in safety protocols in workplaces can significantly reduce accidents and improve worker safety.

Literature

In literature, a stringent code of ethics can drive character development and conflict, particularly in moral dilemmas.
Novels set in dystopian societies often feature stringent governmental controls over citizens’ daily lives.
Writers may use stringent language to evoke emotions or create tension in their narratives.

Translations

Translations of the word "stringency" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rigurosidade

🇮🇳 कठोरता

🇩🇪 Strenge

🇮🇩 ketat

🇺🇦 суворість

🇵🇱 surowość

🇯🇵 厳しさ

🇫🇷 rigueur

🇪🇸 severidad

🇹🇷 katılık

🇰🇷 엄격함

🇸🇦 صرامة

🇨🇿 přísnost

🇸🇰 prísnosť

🇨🇳 严格

🇸🇮 strogost

🇮🇸 strangleiki

🇰🇿 қаталдық

🇬🇪 სიმკაცრე

🇦🇿 ciddilik

🇲🇽 severidad

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,616, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21613 dais
21614 rippled
21615 assimilating
21616 stringency
21617 lapped
21618 inarticulate
21619 ostentatious
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