- strict adherence, or the principle of strict adherence, to law or prescription, especially to the letter rather than the spirit.
- Theology.
- the doctrine that salvation is gained through good works.
- the judging of conduct in terms of adherence to precise laws.
- (in Chinese philosophy) the principles and practices of a school of political theorists advocating strict legal control over all activities, a system of rewards and punishments uniform for all classes, and an absolute monarchy.
- strict adherence to the law, esp the stressing of the letter of the law rather than its spirit
