strict

Everyday

1. A strict person makes people obey rules and does not allow bad behaviour. tree →
2. A strict rule must be obeyed exactly. tree →
3. Strict means exact and careful: «in strict order», «a strict vegetarian». tree →

In the lessons

At school «a strict teacher» insists on quiet and homework on time; «strict rules» about safety, like no running by the pool. In maths and science «strictly» is exact: «strictly greater than» means bigger, not equal. Stories describe strict parents or headteachers to show order and sometimes unfairness. Phrases: «strict with», «strict rules», «strictly speaking».

Examples

• Our teacher is strict but fair. tree →
• My parents are strict about bedtime. tree →
• There are strict rules about phones in class. tree →
• The pool has a strict no-running rule. tree →
• She is a strict vegetarian and eats no meat at all. tree →
• Line up in strict order of height. tree →
• The coach is strict with players who are late. tree →
• There was a strict rule against turning round until one gave the signal, when all turned at once. tree →

Note

Comparative: stricter, strictest. Adverb: strictly. «Strict with someone», «strict about something». Strict is not the same as mean: a strict adult can be kind. In maths, «strictly less than» (<) does not include equal.