Words / C1

py-oorr-i-TAN-ikl/ˌpjʊərɪˈtænɪkl/

Puritanical means very strict in moral or religious matters, often more than the situation needs: a puritanical handbook, puritanical hours. Strict (already in the dictionary) is everyday; supposed virtue is not consent.

Meaning

Very strict in moral or religious matters (from strict, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• “A puritanical handbook is not consent; keep the ethics signature.”
• “Strict is already in this course. Austere is the close twin. A handbook line is talk. A signature is a file. Keep the signature; then keep the austerity if the clause still sits on consent.”

Good to know

Morally austere; severely strict. Everyday: strict (already in the dictionary). A handbook ≠ an ethics signature.

Near in meaning

austere, strait-laced, strict

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