scrupulously clean

USAGE SUMMARY

"scrupulously clean" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a place or object that is extremely clean and well-maintained. Example: "The kitchen was scrupulously clean, with every surface shining." Alternative expressions include "spotlessly clean" and "immaculately clean."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Supermom is scrupulously clean.

The New York Times - Science

Scrupulously clean the bowl and the whisk.

The Guardian

It is scrupulously clean, impeccably maintained and almost unfailingly punctual.

The New York Times

I noted that everything was clearly labeled and scrupulously clean.

The New York Times - Magazine

The places we stayed in were, without exception, scrupulously clean.

The New York Times - Travel

With scrupulously clean hands, mix the whole lot up well.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Since the experiments were performed without adding any buffer, new NMR spectroscopy tubes were scrupulously cleaned to prevent any pH drift by using a NMR spectroscopy tube cleaning apparatus from Sigma Aldrich.

Chemistry - A European Journal

Coarsely ground pork, salt and pepper and scrupulously cleaned intestine.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The cuts and dents show they were scrupulously cleaned of any soft tissues soon after death.

The Guardian

Its walls and ceilings are decorated with different patterns stenciled onto solid backgrounds — an economical imitation of wallpaper used throughout the Head House — that have been scrupulously cleaned and repaired.

The New York Times - Arts

All year vines are managed; during harvest equipment is scrupulously cleaned and fermentation assiduously controlled.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "scrupulously clean" to emphasize not just cleanliness, but also the diligence and high standards employed in achieving it. For example, a "scrupulously clean" laboratory implies rigorous protocols are followed to prevent contamination.

Common error

While "scrupulously clean" is widely used, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "very clean" or "spotless" when speaking informally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scrupulously clean" functions primarily as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It describes the state of being extremely clean, often implying a high standard and meticulous attention to detail, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Lifestyle

24%

Science

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scrupulously clean" is a grammatically correct and very common adjectival phrase used to describe something that is exceptionally clean, implying diligence and high standards. Ludwig confirms its usability and provides numerous examples. While appropriate for neutral to formal contexts such as news, science, and lifestyle writing, it may sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider alternatives like "immaculately clean" or "spotlessly clean" depending on the nuance you want to convey. When used, "scrupulously clean" suggests not only cleanliness but also the meticulous care taken to achieve it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

immaculately clean

Emphasizes a state of perfect cleanliness, leaving no room for any imperfection.

spotlessly clean

Highlights the absence of any spots or marks, suggesting a pristine condition.

meticulously clean

Focuses on the detailed and careful approach taken to achieve cleanliness.

fastidiously clean

Suggests a high level of attention to detail and a strong aversion to dirt.

thoroughly cleaned

Emphasizes the completeness of the cleaning process, leaving nothing untouched.

aseptically clean

Implies a level of cleanliness necessary to prevent infection, particularly in medical or scientific contexts.

hygienically clean

Highlights the health and safety aspect of cleanliness, focusing on the removal of harmful germs.

extremely hygienic

Highlights the health and safety aspect of cleanliness, focusing on the removal of harmful germs.

rigorously sanitized

Focuses on the thorough application of sanitizing measures to eliminate pathogens.

painstakingly purified

Emphasizes the effort and care taken to remove impurities and achieve a state of cleanliness.

FAQs

How can I use "scrupulously clean" in a sentence?

You can use "scrupulously clean" to describe something that is extremely clean and well-maintained. For example, "The operating room was "scrupulously clean" to prevent infection."

What can I say instead of "scrupulously clean"?

You can use alternatives like "immaculately clean", "spotlessly clean", or "meticulously clean" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "scrupulously clean" formal or informal?

The phrase "scrupulously clean" leans towards the formal side, suggesting a high degree of care and thoroughness in maintaining cleanliness. In casual contexts, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "thoroughly cleaned" and "scrupulously clean"?

"Thoroughly cleaned" emphasizes the completeness of the cleaning process. "Scrupulously clean" implies a higher standard of cleanliness, with meticulous attention to detail and a rigorous approach.