Looking up...
meticulous
/məˈtɪk.jə.ləs/
extremely careful
She was meticulous in her research, checking every detail twice.
She was very careful in her research, ensuring no detail was overlooked.
formal
showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise
The architect's meticulous plans ensured no structural flaws.
The architect's very careful plans prevented any mistakes in the structure.
He kept meticulous records of all his expenses.
He maintained extremely detailed and accurate records of his spending.
Often used to describe someone who pays close attention to small details to avoid mistakes.
Collocations
meticulous aboutvery careful with or in doing somethingmeticulous inshowing great attention to detail in a specific activity
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'meticulous' vs. 'meticulously'
'Meticulous' is an adjective (e.g., 'a meticulous worker'), while 'meticulously' is an adverb (e.g., 'She planned the event meticulously').
Gold Rule
Use 'meticulous' for positive precision
Reserve 'meticulous' for contexts where extreme care leads to positive outcomes (e.g., research, art, engineering). Avoid using it for negative connotations like excessive fussiness.
Word Origin
From Latin *meticulosus* (full of fear), from *metus* (fear). Originally meant 'timid,' but shifted in meaning to 'overly concerned with details' by the 19th century.
Usage Notes
While 'meticulous' implies positive care and precision, 'fastidious' can sometimes carry a negative connotation of being overly critical or hard to please. 'Meticulous' is generally neutral or positive.
Word Breakdown
meticul
fearful or overcareful (Latin root)
root-ous
full of
suffixEnglish Dictionary