1. the quality of being strict, severe, or demanding
2. tightness or scarcity, especially of money or resources
Usage: economics; finance

Examples

• The stringency of the new safety regulations surprised many companies.
• Budget stringency forced the department to cut several programs.
• The teacher’s stringency in grading motivated students to work harder.
• Economic stringency led to higher interest rates.
• The stringency of the entrance requirements kept many applicants away.
• Financial stringency affected the university’s expansion plans.