nghiêm khắc
[ŋiəm˧˧ xak̚˧˦]
The English word "strict" is translated into Vietnamese as nghiêm khắc.
nghiêm khắc is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is governed or governing by exact rules.
Meaning: governed or governing by exact rules (adj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word nghiêm khắc is a compound. The part nghiêm means serious or solemn, while khắc means to carve or engrave, implying something that is deeply etched or fixed.
Which one should you use?
While nghiêm khắc describes a strict person or rule, the term nghiêm trọng is used instead when describing a strict or serious situation/problem.
How does it change in a sentence?
When you want to express being strict with a person or a group, the adjective nghiêm khắc is typically followed by the preposition với.
Did you know?
- The word khắc also refers to a traditional unit of time equal to 15 minutes. This creates an unexpected linguistic link between the 'fixed' nature of strictness and the 'fixed' division of time.
- In Vietnamese culture, being nghiêm khắc is often viewed as a form of love and care, especially regarding parents and children. It is frequently paired with the idea of 'building character' rather than just imposing rules.
- When talking about a 'strict' discipline or a 'rigorous' method, Vietnamese speakers might use khắt khe instead of nghiêm khắc, which carries a slightly more negative nuance of being 'difficult' or 'demanding'.
Examples in context
- Anh ấy nghiêm khắc với con mình.He was strict with his children.This sentence shows how to use nghiêm khắc when describing a person being strict with their children.Tatoeba #9629997 by dotheduyet1999, translation #1383235 by quickfitter
- Khi cần thì tôi có thể nghiêm khắc.I can be strict when necessary.This sentence demonstrates using nghiêm khắc to describe being strict when it is necessary.Tatoeba #13657150 by leucammieuvu, translation #13655849 by araneo
- Một số quốc gia có hệ thống luật pháp nghiêm khắc chống lại thuốc phiện.A number of countries have strict laws against drugs.This sentence illustrates using nghiêm khắc to describe strict laws in a legal context.Tatoeba #1575788 by trieuho, translation #274835 by CM
- Giáo viên của tôi luôn nghiêm khắc nhưng rất công bằng.My teacher is always strict, but very fair.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hương and Nam are discussing their different parenting styles.
- HươngAnh có thấy tôi quá nghiêm khắc không?Do you think I am too strict?
- NamKhông, anh thấy em rất công bằng.No, I think you are very fair.
- HươngNhưng con cái cần sự nghiêm khắc để trưởng thành.But children need strictness to grow up.
- NamAnh cũng đồng ý với em về điều đó.I also agree with you about that.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry nghiêm khắc, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
