strict scrutiny

USAGE SUMMARY

"strict scrutiny" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to judicial review, meaning the examination of laws, governmental actions, and other decisions to ensure that they adhere to the principles of the Constitution or law as defined by the Supreme Court. For example, "This law is facing strict scrutiny in the Supreme Court to determine whether or not it is constitutional."

✓ Grammatically correct

Law

Politics

Civil Rights

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Strict scrutiny is a heavy burden.

The Guardian

"Strict scrutiny, intermediate scrutiny, blah blah blah blah.

The Economist

The strictest standard is called, unsurprisingly, "strict scrutiny".

The Guardian - Opinion

Hand baggage and checked baggage both became subject to strict scrutiny following Sept. 11, 2001.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This too is unconstitutional, for strict scrutiny requires that the gain from using race is "substantial".

The Economist

In a 1978 case, the justices called for "strict scrutiny" of such programs.

The New York Times

To survive strict scrutiny, laws must be narrowly tailored to promote a compelling government interest.

The New York Times

But Mr. Bond said any space under strict scrutiny was not universally welcoming.

The New York Times

That is why it is called strict scrutiny," said Bert Rein.

The Guardian

So Congress will act quickly, Mr. Schumer said, but not without strict scrutiny.

The New York Times

Contrary to Justice Kennedy's assertions, we do not "abandon strict scrutiny".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In legal writing, clearly define the specific criteria a policy or law must meet to survive "strict scrutiny", such as demonstrating a compelling government interest and narrow tailoring.

Common error

Avoid using "strict scrutiny" loosely to describe any rigorous review. It's a term of art with a specific legal meaning. Ensure the context involves constitutional rights or suspect classifications; otherwise, use a more general term like "thorough review".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strict scrutiny" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in sentences discussing legal and constitutional matters. Ludwig AI validates that it's a correctly used phrase in written English, particularly in legal review contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strict scrutiny" is a legal term denoting the highest standard of judicial review, primarily used in constitutional law. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English, especially when discussing laws that may infringe on fundamental rights or involve suspect classifications. The term is most frequently found in news and media, encyclopedias and wiki sources, signaling its relevance in legal and academic discourse. While alternatives like "rigorous examination" exist, "strict scrutiny" should be reserved for contexts where the specific legal standard applies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strict examination

Replaces "scrutiny" with a more general term for careful inspection, maintaining the emphasis on thoroughness.

strong scrutiny

Emphasizes the intensity of the examination, similar to "strict scrutiny".

robust scrutiny

Highlights the comprehensiveness and strength of the examination.

tight scrutiny

Suggests a close and careful examination, similar in meaning to "strict scrutiny".

serious scrutiny

Indicates the importance and gravity of the examination.

intensive scrutiny

Focuses on the depth and intensity of the examination process.

rigid scrutiny

Implies a very firm and inflexible examination process.

scrupulous scrutiny

Emphasizes the ethical and meticulous nature of the examination.

vigorous scrutiny

Suggests an energetic and thorough examination.

tough scrutiny

Highlights the demanding and challenging nature of the examination.

FAQs

What does "strict scrutiny" mean in legal terms?

"Strict scrutiny" is the highest standard of review that courts use when evaluating the constitutionality of laws. It requires the government to demonstrate a compelling interest and that the law is narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.

When is "strict scrutiny" applied?

"Strict scrutiny" is applied when a law infringes on fundamental rights or discriminates against a suspect classification, such as race, national origin, or religion.

What are some alternatives to saying "strict scrutiny"?

While "strict scrutiny" is a specific legal term, you can use alternatives like "rigorous examination", "thorough review", or "careful assessment" in more general contexts.

How does a law survive "strict scrutiny"?

For a law to survive "strict scrutiny", the government must prove it has a compelling interest (a very important reason) for the law, and the law must be narrowly tailored, meaning it is the least restrictive way to achieve that interest.