► stricta strict order or rule is one that must be obeyed: Thailand has very strict laws against drugs. I’m telling you this in the strictest confidence (=it must be kept completely secret).
► tough very strict: Tough new laws were introduced dealing with the sale of alcohol to minors.
► rigid strict and difficult to change. Used about rules and systems: The country has a rigid social system.
► rigorous difficult and with strict rules for how to behave. Used about things like programs, tests, and methods: New police officers undergo a rigorous training process.
► stringent very strict and exact. Used about rules and standards: The state of California already has stringent controls on pollution from cars.
► draconian formal very strict and cruel: The authorities had to use draconian measures to deal with the violence.