Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Strict, rigorous, stringent: Describes a manner, regulation, or discipline that is very severe, precise, and leaves no room for deviation or leniency. It implies strict adherence to rules, forms, or protocols.
   • Stern, austere: Can describe a severe or solemn manner in behavior or appearance.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Nhà trường áp dụng nội quy nghiêm cách. (The school enforces strict rules.)
  • Ông ấy có phong thái nghiêm cách. (He has a stern demeanor.)
  • Công việc này đòi hỏi sự tuân thủ nghiêm cách. (This job requires strict compliance.)

Advanced Usage

• "một cách nghiêm cách": in a strict/rigorous manner.
  • Mọi quy trình đều phải được thực hiện một cách nghiêm cách. (All procedures must be carried out in a rigorous manner.)

Variants and Related Words

• Nghiêm (adj): Strict, severe. A more common and general term for strictness.
• Nghiêm khắc (adj): Strict, stern, severe. Often used interchangeably with "nghiêm cách" but can emphasize harshness in judgment or treatment.
• Nghiêm ngặt (adj): Stringent, tight, strict. Often used for rules, security, or controls.
• Nghiêm chỉnh (adj): Serious, proper, well-behaved. Emphasizes correctness and seriousness in attitude.

Synonyms

• Chặt chẽ: Tight, strict, close-knit (e.g., strict reasoning, tight control).
• Ráo riết: Intense, vigorous, relentless (often used for pace or effort, but can imply strictness in execution).
• Khắt khe: Demanding, exacting, harsh (often used for standards or criticism).

Notes on Usage

• "Nghiêm cách" is a formal and somewhat literary term. In everyday modern Vietnamese, "nghiêm ngặt", "nghiêm khắc", or simply "nghiêm" are more frequently used to convey the meaning of "strict".
• It often describes systems, rules, disciplines, or formal conduct rather than personal temperament, though it can be used for the latter in formal contexts.

1. Strict