What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
conscientious
Example
She is a conscientious student who always turns in her assignments on time. [conscientious: adjective]
Example
He acted conscientiously by reporting the mistake he made to his supervisor. [conscientiously: adverb]
meticulous
Example
The artist was meticulous in her painting, paying close attention to every brushstroke. [meticulous: adjective]
Example
He checked and rechecked his calculations meticulously to ensure accuracy. [meticulously: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Conscientious is more commonly used than meticulous in everyday language. Conscientious is a versatile word that can be applied to various contexts, while meticulous is more specific and often used in professional or technical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between conscientious and meticulous?
Both conscientious and meticulous are formal words that are appropriate for professional or academic writing. However, meticulous may have a slightly more technical or specialized connotation than conscientious.