a strict examination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a strict examination' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in context to refer to an exam (or other type of assessment) that is conducted in a strict or stringent way. For example, you could use the phrase in the following sentence: "The teacher was known for giving students a strict examination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

THE opinions of students have great weight in China, which for centuries used a strict examination system to select scholars as civil servants.

The New York Times

Voltaire, for example, liked the idea of a state led by scholarly mandarins, chosen on the basis of intellectual merit in a strict examination system.

The New York Times - Books

A strict examination of works and dates can show, therefore, that Kandinsky does not quite deserve to be called, as he often is, the "founder" of nonfigurative painting; at least he cannot be called the only founder.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It also calls for a strict examination of DJJ services beyond incarceration that could better meet the individualized needs of the youth.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

There Baker evolved a broad program including strict examination and licensing of midwives (and from 1911 free instruction at Bellevue Hospital), appointment of school nurses and doctors, compulsory use of silver nitrate drops in the eyes of all newborns, inspection of schoolchildren for infectious diseases, and numerous methods of distributing information on health and hygiene among the poor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was geared to addressing the need for a database, which would serve as a strict historical examination on producing female artists of that time frame.

Huffington Post

The strict examination and diagnostic procedures in DC/TMD require a certain amount of training.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Based on these review of literatures, 8-mm diameter was formed as a CSD in the rat calvaria in this study for strict examination.

Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The strict examination system used by most countries to determine which students may advance to the next level of education also hurt educational quality.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After strict examination, N = 8 experiments remained useable.

Plosone

Only 2 studies were left after strict examination according to the exclusion criteria listed in [ 22].

BMC Nephrology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strict examination", ensure that the context clearly indicates the criteria or standards being applied. This adds clarity and reinforces the rigor implied by the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "strict" redundantly. While emphasizing rigor is important, ensure the context warrants such a strong descriptor. Consider alternatives like "thorough", "detailed", or "rigorous" if the examination isn't exceptionally stringent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strict examination" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "strict" modifies the noun "examination". It denotes a process of rigorous and thorough assessment or inspection. Ludwig examples show its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strict examination" is a phrase used to describe a thorough and rigorous assessment or investigation. While grammatically correct, Ludwig suggests it's relatively rare, appearing primarily in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science contexts. For alternatives, consider "a rigorous assessment" or "a thorough investigation", depending on the nuances you want to convey. Remember to use "strict" judiciously and ensure your context warrants such emphasis. Understanding these guidelines will help you effectively use and understand the phrase in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rigorous assessment

Replaces "examination" with "assessment" and "strict" with "rigorous", emphasizing the thoroughness and demanding nature.

a thorough investigation

Substitutes "examination" with "investigation", highlighting the in-depth and detailed nature of the process.

a stringent evaluation

Replaces "examination" with "evaluation" and "strict" with "stringent", focusing on the rigorous application of standards.

a meticulous inspection

Emphasizes the attention to detail and precision through the use of "meticulous" and "inspection."

a detailed analysis

Focuses on the depth and comprehensiveness of the assessment by using "detailed analysis".

a careful scrutiny

Replaces "strict examination" with emphasis on careful and critical observation.

an intensive review

Highlights the focused and concentrated effort in the assessment through "intensive review".

a critical evaluation

Emphasizes the judgmental aspect of the examination with focus on the application of standards

a comprehensive assessment

Replaces "strict" to focus on the completeness and breadth of the evaluation.

a forensic analysis

Implies a very detailed and methodical approach, similar to a legal or scientific examination.

FAQs

How can I use "a strict examination" in a sentence?

You can use "a strict examination" to describe a process that is thorough and rigorous, such as "The company underwent "a strict examination" of its finances" or "The doctor performed "a strict examination" to diagnose the patient's condition".

What are some alternatives to "a strict examination"?

Alternatives to "a strict examination" include "a rigorous assessment", "a thorough investigation", or "a stringent evaluation". The best choice depends on the specific context and what aspect of the examination you want to emphasize.

What does "a strict examination" imply?

"A strict examination" implies that the process is conducted with a high degree of rigor, precision, and adherence to specific rules or standards. It suggests that the examiners are thorough and leave no stone unturned.

Is it always positive to describe something as "a strict examination"?

Not necessarily. While it often implies thoroughness and quality, the term "strict" can also suggest inflexibility or harshness. The connotation depends on the context and the perceived fairness and transparency of the examination process. Consider if a term like "a comprehensive review" might be more appropriate.