strict

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. following the exact meaning of something without any changes.

adj. characterized by precise accuracy or a literal interpretation of a rule or definition.

“In the strict sense of the word, a tomato is actually a fruit.”

“The lawyer argued for a strict interpretation of the contract, insisting that the literal phrasing took precedence over the spirit of the agreement.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. used to emphasize that something must be kept totally secret or private.

adj. absolute or complete; often used to describe levels of privacy or confidentiality.

“The medical results are kept in strict confidence between the doctor and the patient.”

“The research was conducted under conditions of strict secrecy to prevent competitors from discovering the new formula before the patent was filed.”

C2 · Proficiency Science Technical

adj. describes a plant that grows very straight and narrow.

adj. describing a plant or flower cluster that is upright, straight, and narrow in form.

“The gardener chose a strict variety of evergreen to fit in the narrow space.”

“The species is easily identified by its strict inflorescence, which stands in sharp contrast to the more diffuse clusters of its relatives.”