methodical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "methodical" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a systematic, orderly, and logical approach to a task or process. Example: "Her methodical approach to problem-solving ensured that no detail was overlooked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"And you need to be methodical – some of the examinations can be laborious and time consuming.

The Guardian - Money

Ed Maibach, director of the Center for Climate Change Communication at George Mason University, said the executive action was consistent with what he said was methodical action by the president to put new climate protections in place.

The Guardian

House said the recovery operation would be slow and methodical.

The Guardian

Along with a very steady hand and an ability to withstand temperatures of up to 45C in the open, studio glassblowers need to remain calm, methodical and above all keep working without losing concentration for a second.

The Guardian - Money

Indeed some around the prime minister lose patience with the president's methodical caution, even if they accept there are no easy options.

The Guardian

Smith's side were different because their concentration never faltered and the methodical tone was sustained to such an extent that little incident was permitted.

The Guardian - Sport

Yellen faced some mild freshman hazing from members of the committee, but nothing that affected her calm, methodical demeanor.

The Guardian - Business

She's been methodical, responsive, elusive, exact, polite, imprecise.

The Guardian - Business

"He did it in a cold, methodical, calculating way.

The Guardian

Yet it's an unexpectedly methodical, measured picture; the only dreaminess attaches, just off-centre, to the spaces where the killer himself moves.

The Guardian - Film

According to Sheridan, a good forensic scientist needs to be inquisitive, methodical and have good communication skills; the job can involve plenty of written reports as well as speaking in the witness box.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or approach, use "methodical" to emphasize a structured and systematic way of doing things.

Common error

Don't use "methodical" to describe actions that are spontaneous or lack a planned approach. "Methodical" implies careful planning and execution.

Linguistic Context

The word "methodical" functions primarily as an adjective. It describes a noun, indicating that the noun possesses qualities of being systematic, orderly, and deliberate in its actions or characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "methodical" is an adjective that describes something done in a systematic and organized manner. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in news and business contexts. To avoid misusing the term, remember that "methodical" should only describe actions with careful planning and execution. For similar meanings, consider using "systematic", "organized", or "orderly".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

systematic

Emphasizes adherence to a defined system or plan.

organized

Focuses on the arrangement and structure of elements.

orderly

Highlights the neat and structured nature of something.

structured

Indicates a clear framework or organization.

disciplined

Implies a controlled and regulated approach.

analytical

Stresses the use of logical reasoning and analysis.

precise

Highlights accuracy and attention to detail.

careful

Emphasizes thoroughness and caution.

deliberate

Suggests a thoughtful and intentional approach.

meticulous

Focuses on extreme attention to detail.

FAQs

How to use "methodical" in a sentence?

Use "methodical" to describe something done in an organized and systematic way. For example, "She took a methodical approach to solving the problem."

What can I say instead of "methodical"?

You can use alternatives like "systematic", "organized", or "orderly" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "methodical approach" or "methodological approach"?

"Methodical approach" refers to a systematic and organized way of doing something. "Methodological approach" relates to the use of specific methods or procedures, often in research or academic contexts.

What's the difference between "methodical" and "meticulous"?

"Methodical" implies a systematic and organized approach, while "meticulous" suggests extreme attention to detail. Someone can be methodical without being meticulously detailed, and vice versa.