punctilious
She is punctilious about following the company's dress code.
She pays very close attention to the rules regarding what she wears.
Showing great attention to detail or correct behavior; scrupulous.
The editor was punctilious in checking every citation.
The editor carefully checked every reference to ensure accuracy.
Often implies a strict adherence to rules or etiquette, sometimes to the point of being fussy.
Collocations
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'punctilious' when you want to emphasize strict adherence to rules or details, especially in formal writing or professional reviews.
Gold Rule
Context Rule
Reserve this word for formal contexts; it sounds unnatural in casual conversation.
Word Origin
From Latin punctilium, meaning 'a point' or 'minute detail', derived from punctum (point).
Usage Notes
Use this word to describe someone who is extremely careful about details, often in a formal or professional context. It is more specific than 'careful' and implies a sense of duty or etiquette.