finicky

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "finicky" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective that is used to describe someone or something who is very particular, fussy, and exacting in terms of their tastes and habits. For example, "He is surprisingly finicky when it comes to his morning coffee - he always uses the same brand and prefers it to be heated to a certain degree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Big Mac is becoming a victim of finicky tastes.

The Guardian - Business

Some did, indeed, seem to have been finicky.

The Economist

It is difficult to see how the most finicky historian of the future will find the slightest reason for doubting that Hitler deliberately and wantonly provoked the new war.After the first breach of the peace the rest followed automatically.

The Economist

Recently, they have been required to become more finicky, particularly in high-risk countries.

The Economist

Jonathan Cooper, of the University of Glasgow, thinks the technique could do away with bulky laboratory equipment, with all its finicky moving parts.

The Economist

Having reached their 30s or 40s, when they can no longer do mind-numbing, fast-paced and finicky work on production lines, they will often go back to the countryside.

The Economist

That could limit expansion, though Jetstar Japan is boldly aiming for 100 aircraft by the end of the decade, up from three at its launch.Third, it will be hard to convince finicky Japanese passengers that low fares make up for the lack of comfort and convenience they are used to.

The Economist

The city's style catalogue has nothing to say about the ornate "Persian palaces" created more recently by builders such as Mr Omrani, and clearly anticipates that no more will be built.Compared with such finicky restrictions on architectural freedom, the measure proposed by the Los Angeles planning department is a wrecking ball.

The Economist

A torrent of dubious privatisations carried out earlier this year has put even more assets in the hands of these cronies.While Western companies stay away, Myanmar's neighbours are less finicky.

The Economist

As border officers become more finicky about documents and more zealous in searching vehicles, he worries trade will suffer.

The Economist

On the first score, there has been some progress: much of the stitching done in Tijuana these days is not of T-shirts but of finicky medical devices such as stents, made of fine pig tissue.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something that requires precise handling, use "finicky" to emphasize the delicate nature of the task or item. For instance, "This antique clock has a very "finicky" mechanism, so handle it with care."

Common error

Avoid using "finicky" to describe general preferences; it should indicate a level of detail that borders on being difficult to satisfy. Instead of saying "He is "finicky" about his car", try "He is meticulous about his car's maintenance" if his attention is on maintenance, or "He is particular about his car" if referring to preferences.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "finicky" primarily functions to describe a subject (person, animal, object, or process) as being difficult to please or requiring meticulous attention. Ludwig AI indicates that "finicky" is often used to characterize something that is fastidious and fussy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "finicky" is a versatile adjective used to describe something or someone as being exceptionally particular, fussy, or demanding. Ludwig AI confirms its standard use in English. With "finicky" being commonly found in News & Media, it often illustrates situations where attention to detail is paramount or when describing individuals with specific preferences. While grammatically straightforward, it's crucial to wield "finicky" appropriately, ensuring it reflects a difficulty that borders on being hard to satisfy. Consider using alternatives like "particular", "fussy", or "fastidious" to best capture the intended meaning. By grasping these nuances, writers can employ "finicky" with confidence and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particular

Focuses on having specific requirements and preferences.

fastidious

Emphasizes extreme attention to detail and cleanliness.

fussy

Highlights excessive concern over trivial details.

exacting

Stresses the demanding nature of requirements.

nitpicky

Implies focusing on minor faults and errors.

choosy

Indicates being selective and careful in choosing.

demanding

Stresses the high expectations required.

scrupulous

Highlights moral or ethical attention to detail.

meticulous

Focuses on extreme precision and thoroughness.

critical

Emphasizes a tendency to find fault.

FAQs

How to use "finicky" in a sentence?

You can use "finicky" to describe someone who is very particular or something that requires careful handling. For example, "The baby was "finicky" until her diaper was changed" or "The old machine is quite "finicky" and requires constant attention".

What can I say instead of "finicky"?

You can use alternatives like "particular", "fussy", or "fastidious" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "finicky" or "finical"?

"Finicky" and "finical" are both related, but "finicky" is more commonly used to describe someone who is difficult to please or something that requires great care. "Finical" is a more formal and less frequently used synonym.

What's the difference between "finicky" and "demanding"?

"Finicky" implies being particular and difficult to please, especially about details, while "demanding" suggests requiring a lot of effort or attention. A "finicky" eater might only eat specific foods prepared in a certain way, whereas a "demanding" boss might expect a lot of work from their employees.