Blog

Rigorous

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Thorough and accurate, often to the point of being demanding or severe.
2. Strict and uncompromising in nature, requiring precision or discipline.
3. Harsh or severe, particularly in conditions or treatment.
4. Characterized by thoroughness and attention to detail, often in a methodical or systematic way.

History and Origin

The word “rigorous” originates from the Latin rigor, meaning “stiffness” or “severity,” derived from rigere, meaning “to be stiff or rigid.” It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe conditions or methods that are harsh or strict. Over time, it also came to be associated with thoroughness or exactitude, particularly in the context of methods, research, or testing.

Detailed Explanation

“Rigorous” refers to something that is exacting, strict, or demanding. It is often used to describe processes, conditions, or treatments that are very thorough and leave little room for error. In various contexts, it conveys a sense of discipline and careful attention to detail. For example, a rigorous academic course would require intensive study, effort, and precision. Similarly, a rigorous physical training regimen would involve strict discipline and high expectations.

The term can also refer to harsh conditions, such as “rigorous weather,” which may imply extreme cold, heat, or difficulty. Rigorous is often applied to situations where strict standards or high levels of intensity are involved, often with an expectation of success through perseverance or effort.

Example Sentences

1. The rigorous training program helped the athletes prepare for the competition.
2. The research was conducted with rigorous attention to detail, ensuring accurate results.
3. They faced rigorous conditions while climbing the mountain, with freezing temperatures and strong winds.
4. The rigorous standards of the exam made it difficult for students to pass on their first attempt.
5. The company’s rigorous hiring process ensures that only the most qualified candidates are selected.
6. Her rigorous workout routine helped her achieve her fitness goals quickly.
7. The rigorous review process ensures that all documents are thoroughly checked for errors.
8. The country’s legal system is known for its rigorous enforcement of laws and regulations.
9. The team underwent rigorous preparation before the championship game.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Stringent – Implies strict and demanding conditions, particularly in regulations or requirements.
2. Thorough – Involving careful and complete attention to every detail.
3. Severe – Harsh or extreme, often used to describe difficult or challenging conditions.
4. Exacting – Requiring great precision and attention, often with little tolerance for error.
5. Demanding – Requiring a lot of effort, attention, or hard work, often with high standards.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Strict – Implies enforcement of rules or standards without leniency.
2. Tough – Used to describe challenges or conditions that are hard to endure.
3. Harsh – Implies cruelty or severity, often in conditions or treatment.
4. Uncompromising – Relates to someone or something that does not yield or adjust easily.
5. Intense – Describes something that is very focused or forceful, often requiring great effort.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Challenging – Difficult, requiring significant effort or skill to overcome.
2. Difficult – Hard to achieve or endure, often requiring great strength or ability.
3. Brutal – Implies severe or cruel treatment or conditions.
4. Unyielding – Describes something that does not bend, adjust, or soften under pressure.
5. Vigorous – Full of energy and strength, often used to describe efforts or physical activity.

Antonyms

1. Easy
2. Lenient
3. Flexible
4. Gentle
5. Lax