Guide 184 / 200 4 alternatives 2-minute read
Better ways to say “strictly speaking”
A flag that a literal reading is about to correct a loose one.
i · Why avoid itTwo lines, no filler
Useful when the distinction is real — "strictly speaking, it's an alloy, not an element." Empty when the distinction isn't meaningful. If you're going to be strict, be strict; if it doesn't matter, skip the warning.
ii · Before & afterDrop-in demo
Before
Strictly speaking, we could argue either way.
After
Either reading is defensible.
iii · The alternatives4 ways out
- 01Technically neutral
near-synonym
Technically, it's an alloy.
- 02Literally neutral
claim literal reading
Literally, it's an alloy, not an element.
- 03In precise terms formal
formal precision
In precise terms, it's an alloy.
- 04[delete it] neutral
if the distinction is trivial
Either reading is defensible.
iv · Brew tipKeep this one
Only speak strictly when the strictness matters.