meticulous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
meticulous Word Meanings
- showing great attention to detail
- very careful and precise
- demanding perfection in tasks
meticulous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
meticulous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/məˈtɪkjʊləs/
US
/məˈtɪkjələs/
meticulous Word Etymology
meticulous = meticulus (Latin) meaning 'fearful, timid' + -ous (suffix) meaning 'full of'. The term conveys a sense of being fearful of making mistakes and thus being overly careful. Imagine an artist meticulously painting every detail to avoid any errors.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Meticulous describes a person who pays extraordinary attention to every detail and standard, often in order to prevent mistakes. It signals a disciplined, thorough approach in professional tasks, research, design, or quality control beyond ordinary carefulness. A meticulous person checks sources, verifies data, edits work, and plans steps with precision. The term implies steady focus over time and a refusal to accept sloppy results, not merely neatness. Learners should distinguish meticulous from simply being tidy or cautious; use it when a project truly requires exacting standards and deliberate, methodical effort.
Usage Reminders
- Be precise in tone
- Avoid using for casual chores
- Pair with verbs like check, verify, document
- Use the adverb meticulously for actions done with care
- Avoid conflating with neatness alone
- Prefer in contexts of rigorous standards
Common Misconceptions
- Meticulous means being fussy about everything, even small flaws
- It is the same as being neat or tidy
- It always implies perfectionism and anxiety
- It should be used for casual, everyday tasks
- Being careful is the same as being meticulous
Thinking Differences
English tends to use meticulous in professional or academic contexts to signal rigorous, planned precision. Learners often overextend it to casual tasks or mistake it for simply being tidy or anxious; avoid applying it to minor chores.
Learning Tips
- Note the difference between meticulous and careful; meticulous is stricter
- Use in contexts that demand high accuracy and thoroughness
- Co-occur with verbs like check, verify, document
- Avoid casual tasks; reserve for professional writing or research
- Learn related forms: meticulously, meticulousness
- Compare with similar adjectives: rigorous, precise, thorough
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'meticulous'?
A.Careful
B.Quick
C.Loud
D.Sad
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'meticulous' used correctly?
A.He paid meticulous attention to every detail in his artwork.
B.She quickly completed the project without being meticulous.
C.The loud music was meticulous and calming.
D.I felt sad while being meticulous in my work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'meticulous'?
A.Negligent
B.Messy
C.Careless
D.Rigorous
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'meticulous'?
A.Sloppy
B.Precise
C.Thorough
D.Attentive
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would being meticulous be important?
A.Doing homework quickly without checking for errors
B.Organizing an event with attention to every detail
C.Cooking a meal without following a recipe
D.Running a race without planning ahead
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