scrupulous about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scrupulous about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is very careful and precise about doing something, often in relation to ethics or attention to detail. Example: "She is scrupulous about following the rules and ensuring that everything is done correctly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

I'm scrupulous about preserving that alone-time.

The Guardian

Makiya is scrupulous about his historical sources.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Rutherfurd is scrupulous about accuracy and about avoiding anachronisms.

The New York Times - Books

He was, however, always scrupulous about crediting them.

The Guardian - Books

It was also scrupulous about the confidentiality of customers.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's not a Sisyphean task to be scrupulous about using personal e-mail for nongovernment missives.

The New York Times

Silver is scrupulous about not claiming more certainty than he has.

The New York Times - Books

"If you're scrupulous about it, your things will be there when you look for them".

Independent

The Police Department says it is scrupulous about ensuring the system is not misused.

The New York Times

And they are, if anything, more scrupulous about content than are local-authority providers.

The Economist

Few other fairs are known to be so scrupulous about what can be shown.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "scrupulous about", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific aspect you are being meticulous or ethical about. Vague usage can dilute the impact of this phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "scrupulous about" in very casual conversations. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or pretentious if the situation doesn't warrant such a high degree of precision and ethical consideration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scrupulous about" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating a characteristic of being extremely careful and attentive to detail, especially regarding morality or ethics. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Books

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scrupulous about" is a highly prevalent phrase used to describe someone who is extremely careful and attentive to detail, particularly in ethical or moral contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability across diverse domains. Predominantly found in news, media, and literature, this phrase emphasizes integrity and reliability, suitable for formal and professional communications. To maintain clarity and impact, ensure the context clearly identifies the specific aspect being meticulously observed, while avoiding its overuse in overly casual situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conscientious with respect to

Emphasizes moral duty and carefulness, making it a more formal and ethically driven alternative.

meticulous regarding

Focuses on extreme attention to detail, making it slightly more formal than "scrupulous about".

punctilious about

Focuses on precise observance of formalities or etiquette, which is a narrower application.

rigorous in relation to

Highlights strict adherence to standards, suitable when the context involves rules or procedures.

exacting regarding

Stresses high demands and precision, suitable when referring to accuracy or correctness.

diligent concerning

Implies a consistent and earnest effort, shifting the focus from ethics to effort.

thorough with respect to

Suggests comprehensiveness and attention to all aspects, rather than a focus on ethical correctness.

precise regarding

Focuses on accuracy and exactness, rather than moral considerations.

careful concerning

Is a broader term that doesn't necessarily imply a strong moral or ethical component.

circumspect about

Implies caution and wariness, adding a layer of careful consideration and prudence.

FAQs

How can I use "scrupulous about" in a sentence?

You can use "scrupulous about" to describe someone who is very careful and attentive to detail, especially in matters of ethics or accuracy. For example: "The accountant was "scrupulous about" ensuring all financial records were accurate."

What are some alternatives to "scrupulous about"?

Alternatives include "meticulous regarding", "diligent concerning", or "conscientious with respect to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "scrupulous about"?

Use "scrupulous about" when you want to emphasize a high level of ethical or procedural exactness. It's appropriate in formal writing, professional settings, or when discussing topics that demand precision and integrity.

What's the difference between "scrupulous about" and "careful about"?

"Careful about" is a general term for being cautious or attentive, while "scrupulous about" implies a moral or ethical dimension to the carefulness. Someone "scrupulous about" something is not only careful but also highly principled.