meticulous

/məˈtɪkjələs/
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Showing extremely careful attention to small details so that the result is exact and complete.

Examples

  • The report was not meticulous enough to catch the error.
  • Did you notice how meticulous his preparation was?
  • The jeweler was meticulous about checking each stone.
  • She kept meticulous records of every expense.
  • Her work is creative without becoming any less meticulous.

Similar words

careful
painstaking
diligent
thorough
precise
scrupulous

Meanings

Extremely careful and precise

adjective
everyday
neutral
Giving very close attention to every small detail, especially to make sure work is accurate, orderly, and complete.

Examples

  • She kept meticulous records of every expense.
  • The jeweler was meticulous about checking each stone.
  • Did you notice how meticulous his preparation was?
  • Her work is creative without becoming any less meticulous.
  • The report was not meticulous enough to catch the error.

Similar words

Etymology

From Latin meticulosus, meaning fearful or timid, through French méticuleux. In English, the idea shifted from excessive fearfulness to unusually careful attention to detail.

FAQ

What does meticulous mean?

Meticulous means extremely careful about small details.

How do you pronounce meticulous?

In General American English, meticulous is pronounced /məˈtɪkjələs/.

Is meticulous positive or negative?

It is usually positive, though it can suggest more attention to detail than a situation needs.

What is the difference between meticulous and careful?

Careful is broad, while meticulous stresses very close attention to even the smallest details.

Where does meticulous come from?

It came through French from a Latin word that meant fearful or timid.

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