Translation guide
The English word "strict" can describe rules, people, or standards. In Japanese, different words are used depending on whether you mean rigorous enforcement, a severe person, or precise adherence.
Describing rules, laws, or systems that are rigidly enforced with little flexibility.
The most common and versatile word for 'strict'. Used for rules, discipline, training, and people.
This school has strict rules.
He is a strict boss.
More formal than 厳しい, emphasizing strictness in enforcing rules or standards. Often used for policies, inspections, or upbringing.
Strict regulations are applied.
He was strict with his children.
Used for strict security, surveillance, or precautions. Implies thoroughness and severity in protective measures.
Airport security is strict.
Describing a person who is harsh, unforgiving, or exacting in their expectations.
Again the most common choice. Can describe a strict teacher, parent, or boss.
My mother was very strict with me.
Literally 'scary', but often used colloquially to mean 'strict' or 'intimidating' when referring to a person.
Means 'severely strict' or 'harsh', often used for criticism or scolding.
Emphasizing that something is done exactly according to rules, without deviation.
Means 'rigorous' or 'strict' in the sense of precise, exact, or meticulous. Used for definitions, interpretations, or procedures.
In the strict sense, that is not correct.
Strictly speaking, he is not an employee.
Literally 'according to the rules', used to describe doing something strictly by the book.
Describing a disciplined, often self-imposed, strict routine.
厳しい (kibishii) is the general word for strict and can be used for people, rules, weather, etc. 厳格 (genkaku) is more formal and emphasizes strictness in enforcing rules or moral standards. 厳密 (genmitsu) means strict in the sense of precise or exact, often used for definitions or scientific contexts.
The phrase 'strictly speaking' is 厳密に言うと (genmitsu ni iu to), not 厳しく言うと. Using 厳しい here would sound unnatural.
My father is strict about manners.
The company has a strict dress code.
あの先生は怖い。
That teacher is strict/scary.
He gave a strict/harsh critique.
He acts strictly according to the rules.