Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

Hard and fast

Strict

The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "hard and fast" is strict.

This idiom means not to be changed or modified. It generally refers to a set of rules that are fixed and should not be violated under any circumstances. For example, you might say "The rules of the game are hard and fast. There is no room for interpretation."

The other options are not as accurate descriptions of the meaning of the idiom.

• Quick witted: This means to be able to think and speak quickly and cleverly.
• Urgent: This means requiring immediate attention.
• Badly affected: This means to be harmed or injured to a significant degree.