strictly speaking
[ˈstrɪktli ˈspiːkɪŋ]
adverbial phrase
falando estritamente; a rigor; propriamente falando
1. used to indicate that one is being precise about the exact meaning of something, often to correct or clarify a statement
Strictly speaking, a tomato is a fruit, not a vegetable.
Falando estritamente, o tomate é uma fruta, não um legume.
2. used to emphasize accuracy and adherence to strict definitions or rules
Strictly speaking, he didn't lie; he just omitted some details.
A rigor, ele não mentiu; apenas omitiu alguns detalhes.
3. used as a qualifier to indicate that something is true in a technical or formal sense
Strictly speaking, we haven't reached our sales target yet.
Propriamente falando, ainda não atingimos nossa meta de vendas.
This phrase is commonly used in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese in formal writing, academic discourse, and professional communication to establish credibility and precision. In Brazil, 'a rigor' is the most traditional formal variant, while 'falando estritamente' is more modern and widely understood across all social classes.
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