strictly
7 synonyms for strictly, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adverb — In a strict, exact, or rule-following manner.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use strictly
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
strictly speaking
strictly enforced
strictly forbidden
Etymology
From strict plus the adverb-forming suffix -ly.
Full origin of strictly →Frequently asked questions
What does “strictly” mean?
The word “strictly” means in a strict, exact, or rule-following manner. In plain terms, in a rule-bound, exact, or exclusive way.
How do you pronounce “strictly”?
“Strictly” is pronounced STRIHKT-lee (/ˈstɹɪktli/ in IPA).
How do you use “strictly” in a sentence?
Here is “strictly” used in a sentence: “The rules must be strictly enforced.”
What part of speech is “strictly”?
“Strictly” is an adverb.
Is “strictly” a common word?
“Strictly” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “strictly” have?
“Strictly” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a strict, exact, or rule-following manner.
What is the difference between "strictly" and "exclusively"?
In its second sense, "strictly" means only or with nothing else included, overlapping with "exclusively." "Strictly" also carries a sense of firm, rule-following exactness that "exclusively" does not.
Can "strictly" mean "only"?
Yes. "Strictly" can mean only or exclusively, as in this event is strictly for members. In this sense it limits something to a single group or purpose.
