adjective HSK 4
Traditional 嚴
strict · severe · stern · tight
Meaning
严 describes something that is strict, rigorous, or severe in nature. It can refer to people who enforce rules strictly, to harsh conditions or standards, or to tight control and discipline. The character often conveys seriousness and a lack of leniency.
Usage
Commonly used to describe strict parents or teachers (严格的老师), severe weather (严寒), or rigorous requirements (严格的要求). Often combined with 格 to form 严格, which is the most frequent collocation. Can describe both positive strictness (maintaining high standards) and negative harshness depending on context.
Examples
- 01我父亲对我很严。.My father is very strict with me.
- 02这个公司的管理非常严。.This company's management is extremely strict.
Common collocations
- 严格strict, rigorous
- 严重serious, severe
- 严厉stern, harsh
- 严寒severe cold
Antonyms
Origin
The traditional form 嚴 originally depicted a person standing upright under strict observation, conveying the sense of seriousness and severity. The simplified form 严 is a modern simplification.