What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stern
Example
The teacher's stern look silenced the noisy students. [stern: adjective]
Example
He spoke in a stern voice, warning them not to misbehave. [stern: adjective]
Example
The captain was stern with his crew, insisting on following the safety protocols. [stern: adjective]
strict
Example
The school has strict policies against cheating. [strict: adjective]
Example
My parents were very strict when it came to curfew. [strict: adjective]
Example
The company has strict quality control measures to ensure customer satisfaction. [strict: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Strict is more commonly used than stern in everyday language. Strict is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while stern is less common and often used in specific situations where a serious or unsmiling expression or tone is required.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stern and strict?
Both stern and strict can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, strict is more commonly used in formal settings, such as academic or professional environments, where adherence to rules and standards is essential.
