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  1. Home /
  2. Dictionaries /
  3. English Dictionary /
  4. be thorough

be thorough

/biː ˈθʌr.ə/
to be very careful and detailed

When reviewing the contract, be thorough to avoid any mistakes.

This means checking every detail carefully to ensure nothing is overlooked.


general

to do something with great care and attention to detail, leaving nothing overlooked

The detective was thorough in examining the crime scene.

He carefully checked every possible clue to ensure nothing was missed.

Before submitting the report, be thorough in checking all the data.

This means verifying every piece of information to ensure accuracy.

This phrase emphasizes completeness and precision in tasks or investigations.

Collocations

be thorough into be careful and detailed about something specificthoroughly checkto examine something very carefully

Synonyms

be meticulousbe detailedbe carefulbe precisebe exhaustive

Antonyms

be carelessbe sloppybe hastybe superficial

Related Phrases

leave no stone unturnedidiom
to examine everything carefully
dot the i's and cross the t'sidiom
to pay attention to small details

Pro Tip

Professional Use

Use 'be thorough' in work or academic settings to emphasize the importance of careful examination.

Gold Rule

Precision Matters

When someone asks you to 'be thorough,' they expect you to check every detail to avoid errors.

Word Origin

From 'thorough' (adjective) meaning 'complete in every respect,' derived from Old English 'þurh' (through) and 'ful' (full).

Usage Notes

Often used in professional, academic, or investigative contexts where attention to detail is crucial.

Word Breakdown

be
to exist or act in a certain way
verb
+
thorough
complete in every detail
adjective
English Dictionary
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