Translation guide
The English adverb "strictly" can express rigid adherence to rules, precise limitation, or severity. In Japanese, the translation depends on the intended nuance: whether you mean "according to the rules," "in a strict sense," "severely," or "only."
Expressing that something is done in a way that follows rules, regulations, or standards exactly.
Adverb meaning 'strictly' or 'rigorously,' often used when adhering to definitions, rules, or procedures.
厳密に言うと、それは正しくない。
Strictly speaking, that's not correct.
This rule must be strictly observed.
Adverb meaning 'strictly' or 'severely,' often used for enforcement, discipline, or judgment.
先生は生徒を厳しく叱った。
The teacher strictly scolded the students.
規則は厳しく適用される。
The rules are strictly applied.
Phrase meaning 'according to the rules,' emphasizing compliance without deviation.
すべて規則通りに行わなければならない。
Everything must be done strictly according to the rules.
Clarifying that a statement is true only in a precise or limited interpretation, often used in definitions.
Common phrase meaning 'strictly speaking,' used to introduce a precise definition or limitation.
厳密に言えば、クジラは魚ではない。
Strictly speaking, whales are not fish.
Means 'in a narrow sense,' often used in academic or technical contexts to contrast with a broader meaning.
狭義には、この用語は特定の状況のみを指す。
Strictly speaking, this term refers only to specific situations.
Describing an action done with severity, often in punishment, discipline, or criticism.
Adverb meaning 'strictly' or 'severely,' used for harsh treatment or enforcement.
彼は部下を厳しく扱う。
He treats his subordinates strictly.
その行為は厳しく罰せられる。
That act is strictly punished.
Adverb meaning 'strictly' or 'rigorously,' often implying a stern, uncompromising attitude.
彼は規則を厳格に守る。
He strictly adheres to the rules.
Limiting something to a particular category or condition, similar to 'solely' or 'purely.'
Adverb meaning 'exclusively' or 'solely,' often used when something is strictly limited to one purpose or group.
この部屋はもっぱら会議に使われる。
This room is used strictly for meetings.
Pattern meaning 'limited to ~,' used to state that something applies strictly to a certain case.
この割引は学生に限ります。
This discount is strictly for students.
厳密に (genmitsu ni) focuses on precision and exactness, often in logical or definitional contexts. 厳しく (kibishiku) emphasizes severity or harshness, often in discipline or enforcement. Use 厳密に for 'strictly speaking' and 厳しく for 'strictly punished.'
厳密に言うと、それは誤りだ。
Strictly speaking, that is a mistake.
彼は遅刻を厳しく注意された。
He was strictly warned about being late.
English 'strictly' can mean 'only' (e.g., 'strictly for members'), but directly translating as 厳密に or 厳しく would be unnatural. Use もっぱら or ～に限る instead.