What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intensive
Example
The language course was very intensive, with classes every day for six hours. [intensive: adjective]
Example
She underwent an intensive training program to prepare for the competition. [intensive: noun]
rigorous
Example
The research project required rigorous methodology and data analysis. [rigorous: adjective]
Example
The training program was rigorous, with daily workouts and strict dietary restrictions. [rigorous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intensive and rigorous are both commonly used in academic and professional contexts. However, intensive is more commonly used in the context of learning or training, while rigorous is more commonly used in the context of evaluation or examination.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intensive and rigorous?
Both intensive and rigorous are formal words that are typically used in academic or professional contexts. However, rigorous may have a more formal connotation due to its association with strictness and precision.