What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exacting
Example
The job of a surgeon is very exacting and requires a lot of skill. [exacting: adjective]
Example
My boss is very exacting and expects us to meet high standards. [exacting: adjective]
Example
The hike up the mountain was very exacting and required a lot of physical endurance. [exacting: adjective]
strict
Example
The teacher was very strict and did not allow any talking during class. [strict: adjective]
Example
The company has a strict policy against using personal devices during work hours. [strict: adjective]
Example
The prison had strict security measures in place to prevent escapes. [strict: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Strict is more commonly used than exacting in everyday language. Strict is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while exacting is less common and refers to a specific type of demand or expectation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between exacting and strict?
Both exacting and strict can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, exacting may be more commonly used in professional or technical settings due to its emphasis on precision and attention to detail.
