What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
finicky
Example
The finicky customer sent back her meal three times because it wasn't cooked to her exact specifications. [finicky: adjective]
Example
He's so finicky about his coffee that he brings his own beans and brewing equipment to work. [finicky: adjective]
fastidious
Example
She's a fastidious editor who catches even the smallest errors in a manuscript. [fastidious: adjective]
Example
He's very fastidious about his appearance, spending hours grooming himself every day. [fastidious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fastidious is more commonly used than finicky in everyday language. Fastidious is a versatile word that can be applied to a wide range of contexts, while finicky is less common and tends to be used in more limited situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between finicky and fastidious?
Both finicky and fastidious are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional settings. However, fastidious is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, making it slightly less formal than finicky.
