Word
rigorous
Phoneticsrig·or·ous, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɹɪɡɝəs/
UK/ɹˈɪɡəɹəs/
Definitions
01thorough and careful
B2 · Upper Intermediate Academic
adj. very careful and detailed to make sure everything is correct.
adj. characterised by scrupulous accuracy and attention to detail; adhering strictly to a set of standards or methods.
“The scientists conducted a rigorous test to make sure the new medicine was safe.”
“The peer-review process for the journal is exceptionally rigorous, ensuring that only the most methodologically sound research reaches publication.”
Usage
Often used to describe research, testing, analysis, or training.
Synonyms
02strict and demanding
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. strict and following the rules exactly, often in a way that is difficult.
adj. strictly applied or enforced; demanding high levels of discipline or effort.
“The army has a rigorous training program for new soldiers.”
“The academy maintains rigorous standards of conduct, and students who fail to comply are often asked to leave.”
03harsh or severe
C1 · Advanced Literary
adj. very difficult or unpleasant to live through, like a cold winter.
adj. harsh, severe, or extremely inclement, particularly in reference to weather or living conditions.
“The explorers had to survive a rigorous winter in the mountains.”
“The expedition was ill-prepared for such a rigorous climate, lacking the specialised equipment necessary to endure sub-zero temperatures for months.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “rigorous” in context.
Adjective
01. rigorous analysis
“The researchers conducted a rigorous analysis of the data to ensure the results were accurate.”
adj + noun
02. rigorous approach
“The company adopted a rigorous approach to safety, resulting in zero accidents this year.”
adj + noun
03. rigorous method
“Scientists must follow a rigorous method to ensure their experiments can be replicated.”
adj + noun
04. rigorous study
“After a rigorous study of the local ecosystem, the team published their findings in a journal.”
adj + noun
05. appreciation rigorous
06. merit rigorous
Real-World Examples
“He called for rigorous scientific research to show whether it would be both safe and effective.” “I chose someone independent, rigorous and fearless, the best in Australia, because that is what this job demands.” Etymology
Inherited from Middle English rigorous, from Middle French and Anglo-Norman rigoreus, derived from Late Latin rigōrōsus (stiff, rigid; inflexible). By surface analysis, rigor + -ous.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/rigorous