Strictly speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

"Strictly speaking" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want to clarify a point or emphasize a specific interpretation. For example, "Strictly speaking, the results do not support the hypothesis." Alternative expressions include "Technically speaking" and "In strict terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Strictly speaking, yes.

The New Yorker

Strictly speaking, they do.

The New Yorker

Strictly speaking, no.

The New York Times

Strictly speaking, that's true.

The New York Times

Strictly speaking, this isn't true.

The New Yorker

Strictly speaking, that correct.

The Guardian

Strictly speaking, this is not our problem.

The New York Times

Strictly speaking, this is an irrefutable argument.

The New Yorker

Strictly speaking, it's a feather duster.

Independent

"Strictly speaking, it still is".

The Guardian - Books

Strictly speaking, it was true.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Place the phrase at the beginning of a sentence to immediately signal to the reader that you are about to provide a nuanced correction.

Common error

Do not use "Strictly speaking" to introduce a personal preference or a biased viewpoint. It should be reserved for cases where you are referencing an objective standard, a scientific definition or a legal requirement. Using it for opinions can undermine your credibility as it falsely suggests a universal or technical consensus where none exists.

Linguistic Context

Grammatically, "Strictly speaking" acts as an adverbial disjunct or a sentence adverbial. It does not modify a single verb but rather qualifies the entire clause that follows, indicating the speaker's commitment to precision. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is often used to preface a statement that contradicts a popular but slightly inaccurate belief.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "Strictly speaking" is a robust and indispensable phrase for writers who value accuracy over generalization. It serves as a linguistic signal that the following information adheres to a higher standard of rigor, whether that be scientific, legal or definitional. Ludwig AI reveals that it is exceptionally common in authoritative media outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian, where it is used to debunk myths or clarify complex nuances. When you use this phrase, you are inviting the reader to look past common assumptions and focus on the technical truth. To maintain its effectiveness, writers should avoid using it for personal opinions and instead save it for moments where a factual or formal correction is necessary. It pairs well with alternatives like "technically speaking" but carries a slightly more formal and definitive tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Technically speaking

Refers specifically to technical or specialized rules rather than general principles

To be precise

Emphasizes the need for exactitude in measurement or description

In the strictest sense

Focuses on the most narrow or literal interpretation of a term

Properly speaking

Suggests that the current common usage is somewhat improper or loose

In literal terms

Directly addresses the denotation of words rather than their metaphorical usage

Rigorously speaking

Implies a high degree of intellectual or methodological discipline

Strictly considered

Suggests a formal analysis or a thoughtful review of the criteria

In a narrow sense

Limits the scope of the definition to its most essential elements

By definition

Implies that the statement is true based on the inherent meaning of the word

Legally speaking

Confines the truth of the statement to a judicial or regulatory context

FAQs

How do I use "Strictly speaking" in a sentence?

You can use it to introduce a correction or a more accurate definition. For example, "Strictly speaking , a tomato is a fruit, even though we use it as a vegetable".

What can I say instead of "Strictly speaking"?

Depending on your context, you can use phrases like "technically speaking", "to be precise" or "in the strictest sense".

Is "Strictly speaking" formal enough for academic writing?

Yes, it is perfectly appropriate for academic contexts. It is frequently used in the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy and Science Magazine to distinguish between general concepts and rigorous definitions.

What is the difference between "Strictly speaking" and "Generally speaking"?

The two phrases are opposites. While "Strictly speaking" focuses on technical accuracy, "generally speaking" refers to common trends or broad generalizations that might ignore specific exceptions.