What is strictly? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "strictly" in English. It's a versatile word that adds a sense of firmness, precision, and often restriction. Here's a breakdown of its uses, with examples:

1. As an Adverb - Emphasizing Strictness/Rigidity

This is the most common usage. “Strictly” modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb, adding a strong sense of adherence to rules or a limited scope.

• With Verbs (emphasizing rules):

  • "Students are strictly forbidden from using cell phones during exams." (No exceptions allowed)
  • "The regulations strictly prohibit smoking in the building." (Absolutely no smoking)
  • "You must strictly follow the instructions." (No deviations are permitted)
  • "The company strictly adheres to safety protocols." (They follow them without fail)

• With Adjectives (emphasizing exactness):

  • "The recipe is strictly for two people." (Only enough for two)
  • "He's strictly vegetarian." (He only eats vegetarian food – no exceptions for sauces, etc.)
  • "The contract is strictly confidential." (Information cannot be shared.)

• With Adverbs (emphasizing severity):

  • "The penalty for breaking the rules is strictly enforced." (The punishment will be applied severely.)
  • "She sings strictly in Italian." (She only sings in Italian; no other languages.)

2. As a Determiner (Introducing Precise Limits)

This is a slightly less common, more formal usage. It’s typically used to specify a very specific quantity or limitation.

• "The project is strictly limited to a budget of $10,000." (No more, no less)
• "The shipment is strictly for internal use only." (It cannot be sold or distributed externally.)
• “The investigation was strictly limited to the company's records.” (They only looked at the company's records.)

3. “Strictly Speaking” – For Precise Definitions or Facts

When used with "strictly speaking," it means "literally" or "technically." It’s used to point out a narrow interpretation of something, often to highlight a contrast.

• "Strictly speaking, he hasn't finished the report yet." (He hasn't completed all the tasks involved in finishing the report.)
• "Strictly speaking, that's not a real solution." (It doesn't fully address the problem.)
• "Strictly speaking, you’re wrong." (Based on a precise definition, you are mistaken.)

Key Points & Nuances:

• Formal Tone: "Strictly" often has a more formal and serious tone than words like "carefully" or “mainly”.

• Negative Connotation (often): Because “strictly” implies rules and restrictions, it often carries a slightly negative connotation – suggesting rigidity or limitations. However, it can also be used positively when referring to adhering to important standards.

• Synonyms: Depending on the context, you could also use words like: "rigorously," "absolutely," "precisely," "solely," "exclusively," or “unconditionally."

Let’s test your understanding! Can you use “strictly” in a sentence about the following:

1. A new rule about recycling.
2. A piece of music.
3. A medical diagnosis.

Would you like me to check your sentences?