strict · solemn

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 厳 conveys strictness or solemnity; its on-reading is げん.
• Basic usage: 厳しい can describe a strict person or severe cold; 厳格 describes rigor in following standards or rules.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• People and conditions
  • 礼儀に厳しい means strict about manners, while 厳しい寒さ means severe cold.
• Modifying a noun
  • 厳しい人 directly modifies the noun, while 厳格な人 requires な.