be more strict

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be more strict" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when you want to suggest that someone should have stricter rules or standards. For example: In order to ensure everyone follows the rules, we need to be more strict with our enforcement.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Specific states may be more strict.

The Washington Post

"I thought it would be more strict than an American school.

The New York Times

According to the most recent polls: Should America's gun laws be more strict or less strict?

The Guardian - Opinion

"I choose to be more strict for myself because I know myself," he said.

The New York Times

"Boudreau seems to be more strict, more in charge," Cherry said.

The New York Times - Sports

Many returns policies far exceed the minimum legal requirements, so there is room to be more strict.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

The Mexicans born here are more strict.

The Guardian

OpenDJ is more strict in this check than Oracle DSEE.

University of California, Berkeley

Some individuals within Orthodoxy are more strict than others.

The New York Times

He was more strict about what I should read and watch.

Harvard University

We are more strict but we are also talking about social cohesion".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be more strict", ensure that the context clearly defines the area where stricter rules or standards are needed to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "be more strict" without specifying the area of concern. For instance, instead of saying "We need to be more strict", specify "We need to be more strict with project deadlines" to provide clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be more strict" functions as an imperative, often used to suggest or command a change in behavior or policy towards greater stringency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be more strict" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that suggests the implementation of stricter rules or standards. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts. While it maintains a generally neutral register, its application is most prevalent in news and media, science, and academic sources. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the area where increased stringency is needed. For related expressions, consider alternatives like "enforce stricter rules" or "tighten regulations" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enforce stricter rules

Focuses on the action of enforcing rules, emphasizing the active implementation of stricter guidelines.

tighten regulations

Highlights the process of making regulations more stringent, often in a legal or procedural context.

impose stricter standards

Emphasizes the act of setting and requiring adherence to higher standards of performance or quality.

exercise greater control

Shifts the focus to the act of exerting more control over a situation or process, suggesting a stricter oversight.

be more demanding

Implies setting higher expectations and requiring more effort or performance from individuals.

be more rigid

Suggests inflexibility and a strict adherence to rules or procedures, often implying a lack of adaptability.

adopt a tougher stance

Indicates taking a firmer and more uncompromising approach, often in response to a challenge or problem.

increase vigilance

Focuses on heightened awareness and attentiveness to prevent violations or errors, suggesting a stricter monitoring approach.

enhance scrutiny

Stresses the intensification of careful and thorough examination, often to detect flaws or irregularities.

apply firmer measures

Highlights the implementation of stronger actions or policies to ensure compliance or achieve desired outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "be more strict" in a sentence?

You can use "be more strict" to suggest implementing stricter rules or standards. For example, "The teacher decided to "be more strict" with late assignments to encourage better time management."

What's a more formal way to say "be more strict"?

In a formal setting, you could say "enforce stricter regulations" or "impose stricter standards" to convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "be more strict" and "be more rigorous"?

"Be more strict" typically refers to enforcing rules and standards more firmly. "Be more rigorous" implies a more thorough and detailed approach in analysis or methodology.

When should I use "be more strict" versus "become more strict"?

"Be more strict" is a general suggestion or command, while "become more strict" indicates a process of transition. For example, "We need to "be more strict" now" versus "The company will become more strict with its environmental policies next year".