Definitions

meticulous

[muh-tik-yuh-luhs] / məˈtɪk yə ləs /

ADJECTIVE

detailed, perfectionist

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accurate cautious conscientious exact fastidious fussy painstaking precise scrupulous strict thorough

STRONG

detail-oriented

WEAK

conscionable crossing the t's dotting the i's heedful microscopic nitpicking particular persnickety picky punctilious punctual stickling

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless false imprecise inaccurate indefinite inexact negligent questionable thoughtless uncareful uncritical undemanding unscrupulous

WEAK

messy sloppy undetailed

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I had no training in acting, but I was a meticulous observer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 21, 2026

It all sounds very thought-out, logical and empathetic, down to the meticulous way you break down your choices.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 10, 2026

James was whip-smart, meticulous in manner and dress, effortlessly charming.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

Everyone you speak to about Peters says the same words: meticulous, diligent, thorough.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

It was meticulous and demanding work, but I had a knack for it.

From "The Boy on the Wooden Box" by Leon Leyson

Vocabulary lists containing meticulous

100 Words Every Middle Schooler Should Know

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Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 1

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List 2

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