Meaning of the Word
Meticulous refers to showing great attention to detail, being very careful and precise in one’s actions or work.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
- Taking or requiring great care and attention to ensure accuracy or thoroughness.
- Being overly concerned with minor details to achieve perfection.
History and Origin
The word meticulous comes from the Latin word meticulosus, meaning “fearful” or “apprehensive,” derived from metus, meaning “fear.” The term originally had a connotation of being overly cautious or fearful, but over time, its meaning shifted to describe someone who is very careful and pays close attention to details, particularly in tasks or work. It began to take on its current meaning in English around the 16th century.
Detailed Explanation
A meticulous person is one who takes great care to ensure every small detail is considered and perfected. This can apply to various fields, such as art, work, or personal habits. The term implies a level of thoroughness that goes beyond what is necessary, often indicating an obsessive or overly careful approach to tasks.
In everyday use, being meticulous is generally seen as a positive trait, as it suggests precision and dedication. However, in certain contexts, it can also imply excessive attention to trivial details, potentially leading to inefficiency or perfectionism.
Example Sentences
- She was meticulous in her research, ensuring every fact was checked and verified.
- The artist was known for his meticulous attention to every brushstroke in his paintings.
- He approached the project with a meticulous mindset, leaving no detail overlooked.
- The chef prepared the dish with meticulous care, ensuring the presentation was perfect.
- His meticulous handwriting made every note look as if it had been printed.
- The architect was meticulous in planning every aspect of the new building.
- She packed her suitcase in a meticulous manner, folding each item neatly.
- The team worked with meticulous precision to meet the deadline.
- His meticulous preparation for the exam ensured that he passed with flying colors.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Precise – Marked by accuracy and exactness; similar to meticulous in carefulness.
- Thorough – Including every possible detail, often with great attention to completeness.
- Diligent – Showing careful and persistent effort, similar to being meticulous in work.
- Scrupulous – Being very careful to do things properly, often with high ethical standards.
- Conscientious – Taking great care in one’s work, often driven by a sense of duty or responsibility.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Attention to Detail – The ability or practice of noticing and addressing every small part of a task.
- Perfectionist – A person who strives for flawlessness and often exhibits meticulous behavior in achieving high standards.
- Thoroughness – The quality of being thorough, careful, and detailed in work.
- Carefulness – The state of being cautious and paying attention to all aspects of a task.
- Accuracy – The quality of being exact, which is often the result of meticulous attention to detail.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Exacting – Requiring precision and great attention to detail, much like being meticulous.
- Fastidious – Extremely attentive to detail, sometimes to the point of being overly demanding.
- Methodical – Following a set procedure or order, often carefully and with attention to detail.
- Organized – Displaying order and arrangement in tasks, often a result of meticulous planning.
- Systematic – Being methodical and consistent, showing great care in approach, similar to being meticulous.
Antonyms
- Careless – Lacking attention to detail, resulting in mistakes or imprecision.
- Negligent – Failing to take proper care, especially in regard to details or responsibilities.
- Hasty – Done too quickly without attention to detail or thoroughness.
- Imprecise – Lacking accuracy or detail, the opposite of being meticulous.
- Sloppy – Careless or untidy, often resulting in a lack of attention to important details.