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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.

This requires a meticulous approach to planning, trying to group together grounds in a similar area of the country with different kick-off times weeks or months in advance.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 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

The meticulous sonic approach brings to mind some of the lush ’80s work from the German jazz and experimental label ECM, whose motto is “The Most Beautiful Sound Next to Silence.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

Each drawing is meticulous in detail, but also alive.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse