Translation guide
The English adverb "strictly" can express rigid adherence to rules, precise limitation, or severity. In Japanese, the translation depends on the intended nuance: whether you mean "according to the rules," "in a strict sense," "severely," or "only."
Expressing that something is done in a way that follows rules, regulations, or standards exactly.
Adverb meaning 'strictly' or 'rigorously,' often used when adhering to definitions, rules, or procedures.
Strictly speaking, that's not correct.
This rule must be strictly observed.
Adverb meaning 'strictly' or 'severely,' often used for enforcement, discipline, or judgment.
The teacher strictly scolded the students.
The rules are strictly applied.
Phrase meaning 'according to the rules,' emphasizing compliance without deviation.
Everything must be done strictly according to the rules.
Clarifying that a statement is true only in a precise or limited interpretation, often used in definitions.
Describing an action done with severity, often in punishment, discipline, or criticism.
Limiting something to a particular category or condition, similar to 'solely' or 'purely.'
Adverb meaning 'exclusively' or 'solely,' often used when something is strictly limited to one purpose or group.
This room is used strictly for meetings.
Pattern meaning 'limited to ~,' used to state that something applies strictly to a certain case.
This discount is strictly for students.
厳密に (genmitsu ni) focuses on precision and exactness, often in logical or definitional contexts. 厳しく (kibishiku) emphasizes severity or harshness, often in discipline or enforcement. Use 厳密に for 'strictly speaking' and 厳しく for 'strictly punished.'
Strictly speaking, that is a mistake.
He was strictly warned about being late.
English 'strictly' can mean 'only' (e.g., 'strictly for members'), but directly translating as 厳密に or 厳しく would be unnatural. Use もっぱら or ～に限る instead.
Strictly speaking, this term refers only to specific situations.