in the strict sense



in the strict sense

also in the strictest sense
according to the most limited and exact meaning of a word or idea a€?Conservativea€? in the strict sense of the word is not a label that fits her. The novel is not tragic in the strictest sense, but it is certainly full of sadness.
Usage notes: usually used to say that someone or something does not have the characteristics of this limited meaning
See also: sense, strict

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Tolly-English (Archaic)
Quentinkawn-TEN (French), KWEN-tin (English)French, English
Chin-Chinese
Willie['wili]
Cormag-Scottish
Lucretia[lu:'kri:ʃjə]