in a strict interpretation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a strict interpretation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the precise or literal meaning of a term, phrase, or concept, often in legal or academic contexts. Example: "In a strict interpretation of the law, the defendant's actions were not considered illegal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

An edict announced Monday by the Taliban's supreme leader, Mullah Muhammad Omar, called for the destruction of all statues in a strict interpretation of Islamic law banning idols.

The New York Times

Among other things, Rabbi Yosef had said that the judges "fornicated with impure," or menstruating, women, which is proscribed in a strict interpretation of Jewish law.

The New York Times

The Islamic Taliban government ignored international pleas and began demolishing all statues across Afghanistan, including two ancient stone Buddhas, in a strict interpretation of Islamic law banning idols by the movement's leader.

The New York Times

On the one hand, Al Qaeda and Lashkar share many positions: a belief in a strict interpretation of the Koran, a desire to establish a government based on strict Islamic laws and a priority to evict United States troops from Afghanistan and Iraq.

The New York Times

While both treaties have seen some slippage in recent years in a strict interpretation, the same principles that underlie them could also be made for the web.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Working in an occupation considered the exclusive preserve of men is particularly difficult in remote and highly conservative Zamfara, which has been active in implementing a strict interpretation of sharia.

The Guardian

There is no doubt that there are concerns when it comes to the role of Saudi Arabia, direct or indirect, in promoting a strict interpretation of Islam, and its implications on how some people are interpreting Islam today.

Huffington Post

However, since the fault ruptured over several hundred kilometers down-dip over a portion of the slab with significant variation in dip, a strict interpretation of the dip of a point source is not meaningful.

Earth, Planets and Space

In line with a strict interpretation of Islam that segregates the population by sex in many areas of society, it added that women would wear hijab, a conservative Islamic head covering, and would use doors, offices and seating areas separate from the men.

The New York Times

Her case has drawn attention to the rise in Nigeria of a strict interpretation of Shariah, the Islamic legal code.

The New York Times

He wants a traditional Indian fire ceremony of thanksgiving at his cremation in accordance with a strict interpretation of Vedic rites.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in a strict interpretation", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being interpreted (e.g., a law, a text, a concept).

Common error

Avoid using "in a strict interpretation" if a more nuanced or flexible understanding is required. A strict interpretation may not always be the most appropriate or accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a strict interpretation" functions primarily as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the manner in which something is understood or applied. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a strict interpretation" is a grammatically sound and usable prepositional phrase that serves to narrow the scope of understanding or application. As Ludwig shows, it's most commonly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. While alternatives like "literally" or "in the strictest sense" exist, the choice depends on the desired level of formality and precision. Remember to use this phrase when emphasizing adherence to a literal or narrow understanding, as this phrase is correct, as Ludwig AI confirms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the strictest sense

Highlights that the interpretation is the most severe possible.

according to a literal reading

Similar to "literally" but with an explicit mention of the act of reading.

following the precise meaning

This alternative emphasizes the accuracy and exactness of the interpretation.

within a precise definition

This alternative focuses on the exact definition or boundary of something.

literally

This is a single-word substitute focusing on the literal aspect of interpretation.

under a rigid construction

Implies a firm and unyielding interpretation.

adhering to the letter of the law

This phrase is specific to legal contexts, highlighting adherence to the exact wording.

in a narrow sense

Focuses on the limited or restricted scope of the interpretation.

by the book

This idiom suggests following rules and guidelines exactly.

taking it at face value

Emphasizes accepting the obvious meaning without deeper analysis.

FAQs

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

You can use "in a strict interpretation" to specify that you are applying a narrow and literal understanding of something, such as "in a strict interpretation of the law".

What's an alternative to saying "in a strict interpretation"?

Alternatives include "literally", "in the strictest sense", or "according to a literal reading", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean to interpret something strictly?

To interpret something strictly means to understand it according to its most literal or narrow definition, without allowing for flexibility or broader implications. This is often used "in a legal context".

When is it appropriate to use a strict interpretation?

It's appropriate when precision and adherence to the exact wording or intention are crucial, such as "when analyzing contracts", religious texts, or legal statutes.