"in the strict sense" vs "in the narrow sense"

Question

"in the strict sense" vs "in the narrow sense"

Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different meanings and contexts. 'In the narrow sense' is used when referring to a specific, limited definition or interpretation of something. On the other hand, 'in the strict sense' is used when emphasizing a precise, literal definition or interpretation of a term or concept.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used when you want to highlight the exact, literal meaning of a term or concept without any deviation.

Examples:

In the strict sense, a square is a four-sided figure with all sides of equal length and all angles at 90 degrees.

Alternatives:

in a strict sense
strictly speaking
in a precise sense
in a literal sense
in a specific sense

This phrase is used when you want to specify a particular, restricted meaning or interpretation of a term or concept.

Examples:

In the narrow sense, democracy refers only to the direct participation of citizens in decision-making.

Alternatives:

in a narrow sense
narrowly speaking
in a limited sense
in a specific sense
in a restricted sense

Answer 1

in the strict sense

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to emphasize a precise, literal definition or interpretation of a term or concept.

Answer 2

in the narrow sense

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to a specific, limited definition or interpretation of something.

"in the strict sense" vs "in the narrow sense"

in the strict sense

in the narrow sense

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