strictly

Strictly is an adverb used to indicate that something is done in a strict or precise manner, or to limit its scope to a narrow interpretation. It can mean “only” or “solely” (as in strictly for members), or “precisely” (as in strictly speaking).

Etymology: Strictly derives from strictus, a Latin adjective meaning “drawn tight” or “rigid.” It entered English through Old French strict and the related adjective strict, with the adverb form developing to express manner or limitation.

Usage: As a modifier, strictly can affect verbs, adjectives, or entire clauses. Common collocations include strictly forbidden, strictly necessary, and strictly speaking. It often signals formal emphasis or strict adherence to rules: “The rules apply strictly to all players.” It can also introduce a caveat or precise distinction: “Strictly speaking, the report is incomplete.”

Nuance: The word carries a formal tone and a sense of exactness or exclusion. It can convey that a rule, condition, or interpretation is being applied without exception, or that a statement should be considered only in a narrow sense. In casual speech, it may come across as overly rigid if overused.

See also: strict; strictly speaking; synonyms such as stringent, exact, and precise.