be meticulous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be meticulous" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone to pay careful attention to detail in their work or actions. Example: "When preparing the report, be meticulous in checking all the data for accuracy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He recommended to consider arthroscopic excision of calcium deposits with caution and to be meticulous during the subacromial debridement of calcific foci to minimize the risk of recurrence.

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

From her, he learned to be meticulous.

The New York Times

"You have to be meticulous about this".

The New York Times - Arts

Rampage killers tend to be meticulous planners.

The New York Times

The structure has to be meticulous – I'm a structure freak.

The Guardian - Books

To realize the true value and potential of interstitial space, planning for it must be meticulous.

Planning and Designing Research Animal Facilities

In fact Ms. Steele went through Romanian and then, to be meticulous, Virginia legal proceedings.

The New York Times

The DPLA has made it clear that it will be meticulous in respecting copyrights.

MIT Technology Review

He would continue to be active, he decided, but he would be meticulous about it.

The New York Times

"It is all a bit laborious and you have to be meticulous.

The Guardian - Money

And they were the ones who were meant to be meticulous on detail.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to perform a task, use "be meticulous" to clearly communicate the need for careful attention to detail, especially when accuracy is critical.

Common error

Avoid using "be meticulous" when the situation doesn't require intense focus on minor details. Overemphasizing small points can lead to inefficiency and frustration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be meticulous" functions as an imperative verb phrase, urging someone to adopt a careful and detailed approach. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. The phrase is frequently used to provide instructions or recommendations, emphasizing the importance of precision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be meticulous" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that advises someone to pay close attention to detail. Ludwig confirms its correctness and widespread use. It's particularly relevant in contexts requiring accuracy and precision, such as science, news, and professional settings. While synonyms like ""be thorough"" and ""be precise"" exist, "be meticulous" emphasizes a rigorous and careful approach. Be mindful of context to avoid overusing it in situations where extreme detail isn't necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be thorough

Suggests a comprehensive and complete approach.

be precise

Emphasizes accuracy and exactness.

pay attention to detail

Focuses on the act of noticing and considering small aspects.

be conscientious

Highlights being thorough and careful in one's work.

be painstaking

Stresses the effort and care taken to avoid errors.

exercise diligence

Emphasizes careful and persistent effort.

be exacting

Implies a high standard and demanding approach.

be scrupulous

Indicates a strong moral or ethical component to the thoroughness.

be punctilious

Highlights strict adherence to correct procedure.

handle with precision

Focuses on the manner in which something is managed or executed.

FAQs

How can I use "be meticulous" in a sentence?

You can use "be meticulous" to advise someone to pay close attention to detail. For example, "When conducting your research, "be meticulous" in documenting your sources."

What does it mean to "be meticulous"?

To "be meticulous" means to be extremely careful and precise, paying close attention to detail to avoid errors or mistakes.

What are some synonyms for "be meticulous"?

Alternatives to "be meticulous" include "be thorough", "be precise", and "pay attention to detail".

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "be meticulous"?

The phrase "be meticulous" is particularly suitable in contexts where accuracy, precision, and thoroughness are crucial, such as in scientific research, legal documentation, or quality control processes.