RIGID Synonyms: 187 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'rigid' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigid are rigorous , strict , and stringent . While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility. // rigid rules of conduct

Q: When would 'rigorous' be a good substitute for 'rigid'?

The synonyms rigorous and rigid are sometimes interchangeable, but rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty. // the rigorous training of recruits

Q: When might 'strict' be a better fit than 'rigid'?

The words strict and rigid can be used in similar contexts, but strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements. // strict enforcement of the law

Q: When could 'stringent' be used to replace 'rigid'?

Although the words stringent and rigid have much in common, stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation. // stringent standards of admission

rigid

adjective

ˈri-jəd

Definition of rigid next

as in strict

not allowing for any exceptions or loosening of standards rigid enforcement of drug laws

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in tough

given to exacting standards of discipline and self-restraint a rigid man who cannot seem to relax

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as in hard

having a consistency that does not easily yield to pressure rigid steel bars that should be able to hold the weight

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as in stiff

incapable of or highly resistant to bending corsets, those rigid undergarments for women, must have been murder to wear

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as in tight

stretched with little or no give make sure that the clothesline is rigid so that the longer garments don't drag on the ground

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word rigid distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rigid are rigorous, strict, and stringent. While all these words mean "extremely severe or stern," rigid implies uncompromising inflexibility.

rigid rules of conduct

When would rigorous be a good substitute for rigid?

The synonyms rigorous and rigid are sometimes interchangeable, but rigorous implies the imposition of hardship and difficulty.

the rigorous training of recruits

When might strict be a better fit than rigid?

The words strict and rigid can be used in similar contexts, but strict emphasizes undeviating conformity to rules, standards, or requirements.

strict enforcement of the law

When could stringent be used to replace rigid?

Although the words stringent and rigid have much in common, stringent suggests severe, tight restriction or limitation.

stringent standards of admission

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of rigid Dennis Hui, global business development manager, denim at Lenzing, said some customers want the stiffness of rigid fabrics while others ask for more drape. —

Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 29 Oct. 2024 The distinction is important because a felony arrest typically entails more rigid follow-up in court and a higher likelihood of jail detention, while a misdemeanor often ends with a citation and release on the spot. —

Robert Salonga, The Mercury News, 6 Nov. 2024 Krieps, playing Jill possessed by Elizabeth, gets slighter colder, more rigid, and more awkward. —

Scott Roxborough, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 Nov. 2024 High turnout among white evangelical voters would be key to a Trump victory on November 5, but his relationship with the demographic has faced some tension as his positions on some of these social issues have at times been less rigid than those of other conservatives. —

David Faris, Newsweek, 3 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rigid

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rigid

Adjective

About half of states have laws targeting transgender health care, but Tennessee’s is among the strictest.

Ian Millhiser, Vox, 15 Nov. 2024
Many welcome Trump’s more strict immigration policy.

Kristen Taketa, The Mercury News, 11 Nov. 2024