Spanish word

exigente

Pronunciation

IPA/eksiˈxente/

Meaning

  • adjectivedemanding

Example

El jefe es exigente con los horarios.

The boss is demanding about working hours.

Illustration for exigente (demanding)

More examples

El trabajo era exigente pero me ayudó a mejorar.

The job was demanding but it helped me improve.

Core concept

A very high standard with a narrow margin for error.

Common phrases

  • ser exigente

    be demanding

  • un trabajo exigente

    a demanding job

  • un jefe exigente

    a demanding boss

Similar words

estricto: Requires strict obedience to rules and enforces policies without flexibility.
riguroso: Checks procedures meticulously and enforces rigorous, methodical standards.
severo: Imposes severe penalties or stern treatment, maintaining strict consequences.
perfeccionista: Seeks perfect outcomes in every detail and refuses to compromise quality.

Definition in Spanish

Que exige un nivel alto en comportamientos, resultados o condiciones, con poco margen de tolerancia.

Word origin

From Latin exigĕre ('ex-' out + 'agĕre' to drive or do) via Spanish exigir, with the suffix -ente forming an adjective meaning 'one who demands' or 'demanding'.

Usage tips

  • Used about people it highlights strict expectations and little tolerance, and when used about oneself it often conveys ambition rather than complaint.

Other meanings

  • strictadjective

Opposites

  • indulgenteindulgentadjective
  • flexibleflexibleadjective

Related words

Word lists with this word