scrupulous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
scrupulous Word Meanings
- very concerned about doing the right thing
- paying careful attention to detail
- having hesitation or doubt about doing something wrong
scrupulous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
scrupulous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈskruːpjʊləs/
US
/ˈskruːpjələs/
scrupulous Word Etymology
scrupulous = scrupulus (Latin for 'small stone, moral scruple') + -ous (having the quality of). Originating from Latin to Middle French then to English. Picture a person meticulously weighing small moral stones, representing careful ethical considerations.
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
Scrupulous describes a person who is unusually careful about doing the right thing, especially in moral or ethical matters. It implies a high standard of honesty, responsibility, and attention to small details that reveal integrity. Someone scrupulous checks facts, follows rules to the letter, and hesitates when a choice could compromise values. The word carries a sense of diligence that goes beyond mere thoroughness and can include hesitating to act when there is even a hint of risk of wrongdoing. In everyday speech, it can contrast with careless or lax behavior, and it is often admired in professional contexts like law, medicine, or journalism.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: it signals a moral dimension, not just precision. Use scrupulous about, or scrupulously in adverbs. It can imply hesitation or weighing consequences. Not every careful person is scrupulous. Pair with nouns like ethics, standards, or compliance. Prefer alternatives like meticulous for nonethical carefulness.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing scrupulous with meticulous; the moral element is essential
- Assuming it means hesitant in all decisions, not just ethical ones
- Thinking it describes extreme scruples or doubt rather than standards
- Using it to mean petty or overly fastidious about trivial details
- Believing it always has a positive tone in professional writing
Thinking Differences
English speakers often separate being thorough from being moral; scrupulous blends both. Learners may overuse it for simple neatness or underuse it because they fear sounding overly judgmental.
Learning Tips
- Make a mental link to ethics plus precision
- Pair with nouns like ethics or standards
- Use scrupulously as an adverb
- Compare with meticulous when ethics are not involved
- Notice collocations with professional fields
- Practice by reading about integrity in news or law
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'scrupulous'?
A.Meticulous
B.Careless
C.Indifferent
D.Hasty
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'scrupulous' used correctly?
A.He did a scrupulous job washing the dishes.
B.Their scrupulous behavior led to mistakes.
C.She showed a scrupulous attitude towards her work.
D.I am not scrupulous about following rules.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym of 'scrupulous'?
A.Negligent
B.Lax
C.Careless
D.Thorough
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym of 'scrupulous'?
A.Conscientious
B.Sloppy
C.Meticulous
D.Precise
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would being 'scrupulous' be important?
A.Cleaning the house
B.Playing a video game
C.Choosing a movie to watch
D.Writing a legal document
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App