What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
finicky
Example
She's so finicky about her coffee, it has to be just the right temperature. [finicky: adjective]
Example
The finicky eater refused to eat anything except plain pasta. [finicky: adjective]
Example
The finicky task of assembling the model airplane required patience and precision. [finicky: adjective]
meticulous
Example
He was meticulous in his research, double-checking every detail. [meticulous: adjective]
Example
The artist was meticulous in her painting, taking great care with each brushstroke. [meticulous: adjective]
Example
The construction of the bridge required meticulous planning and execution. [meticulous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Meticulous is more commonly used than finicky in everyday language. Meticulous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while finicky is less common and often used to describe specific situations or people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between finicky and meticulous?
Meticulous is generally more formal than finicky. While finicky can be used in informal contexts, meticulous is often associated with professional or academic settings.
