Fastidiously Meaning: Definition and Examples
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fastidiously
[fæˈstɪdɪəsli ]
Definition
manner of doing
Fastidiously means doing something with great attention to detail and care, often with a sense of precision. This term suggests a meticulous or particular approach, especially when it comes to cleanliness or quality. A person who works fastidiously is likely to be very difficult to please and may excessively focus on minor issues, reflecting their high standards. It is often associated with being critical or overly concerned with imperfections.
Synonyms
demandingly, meticulously, scrupulously.
Examples of usage
- She fastidiously cleaned every corner of the room.
- He fastidiously arranged the flowers in the vase.
- They completed the project fastidiously, ensuring every detail was perfect.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People who are fastidious may display traits of perfectionism, often seeking flawlessness in tasks.
- Research suggests such meticulousness can lead to higher levels of stress, as they may hold themselves to unattainable standards.
- Fastidious individuals might also excel in detail-oriented fields like science and art, where precision is critical.
Literature
- Writers often use fastidious characters to explore themes of obsession and control, giving depth to their stories.
- Classic literary figures, like the character of Ulysses in James Joyce's work, are depicted as fastidious, reflecting their complex natures.
- Fastidiousness can be a source of humor in literature, as characters overly focused on details add comedic tension.
Cultural References
- In culinary arts, chefs are expected to work fastidiously, ensuring every dish is perfect in presentation and taste.
- The fastidious nature is often portrayed in film and television, with characters being meticulous in their personal or professional lives.
- Certain cultures may value fastidiousness in craftsmanship, reflecting a commitment to quality and excellence.
Science
- In biology, fastidious organisms are those that require specific conditions to grow, illustrating how detail-oriented life can be.
- In scientific research, fastidious attention to experimental detail is crucial for replicability and validity of results.
- Fastidiousness in data collection ensures accuracy, preventing misinterpretation of important scientific findings.
Origin of 'fastidiously'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'fastidiosus,' which means 'full of disdain' or 'difficult to please.'
- In early English, it was used to describe someone who was picky about their food or surroundings.
- Its use in literature dates back to the 16th century, conveying a sense of meticulousness.
The word 'fastidiously' originates from the Latin term 'fastidiosus', which translates to 'disdainful' or 'squeamish'. This derives from 'fastidium', meaning 'loathing' or 'disgust'. The transition into English occurred in the early 17th century, where it retained the essence of being overly particular or critical. Over time, the term evolved to emphasize not just a sense of disdain but a careful and precise approach to tasks. As language developed, 'fastidious' became a descriptor for those who exhibit a heightened awareness of detail and quality, often leading to the adverbial form 'fastidiously' to express the manner in which actions are performed. Throughout its history, the term has maintained a connection to meticulousness linked with a possible negative connotation of fussiness or excessive judgment.