Scrupulous Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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scrupulous
[ˈskruːpjʊləs ]
Definitions
behavior
Having moral integrity and being very attentive to details.
Synonyms
conscientious, meticulous, thorough.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scrupulous |
Used when someone pays great attention to detail and adheres strictly to moral or ethical principles.
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| conscientious |
Describes someone who is diligent, dedicated, and takes their responsibilities seriously, often in work or duties.
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| meticulous |
Refers to someone who is very precise and attentive to even the smallest details, often in tasks that require accuracy.
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| thorough |
Indicates comprehensive and complete attention to all aspects of a task or situation.
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Examples of usage
- He was known for his scrupulous honesty in all his dealings.
- She was very scrupulous in her work, always double-checking everything.
careful
Showing great care and diligence.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scrupulous |
Used when describing someone who pays great attention to detail and is very careful to do things properly, often with a strong sense of morality.
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| attentive |
Refers to someone who is paying close attention to something or someone, typically in a caring or kind manner.
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| cautious |
Describes someone who is careful to avoid potential problems or dangers, often implying a sense of wariness.
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| precise |
Used to describe someone or something that is exact and accurate in every detail.
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Examples of usage
- The architect was scrupulous in his design to ensure every detail was perfect.
- It is important to be scrupulous when handling delicate instruments.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that scrupulous individuals often feel intense guilt if they believe they have acted unethically, even in minor situations.
- This behavior can sometimes lead to 'scrupulosity', a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder where one is excessively worried about moral or ethical issues.
Literature
- The term frequently appears in classic literature, often to describe characters with strong moral compasses, such as in the works of Charles Dickens.
- In contemporary novels, scrupulous characters are often portrayed as both admirable and troubled by their rigid adherence to ethics.
Pop Culture
- In movies, scrupulous characters are often depicted as the moral center, navigating the grey areas of ethics in the plot.
- Scrupulous traits are celebrated in various heroic figures, reflecting our admiration for integrity and honesty.
Business Ethics
- In the corporate world, scrupulous behavior is encouraged in ethical leadership, highlighting the importance of honesty in business practices.
- Companies known for their scrupulous standard often gain consumer trust, leading to long-term success.
Origin of 'scrupulous'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'scrupulus', which means a small, sharp stone – something that could bother you if in your shoe, similar to how a scrupulous person is bothered by dishonesty.
- In the 16th century, it started being used to describe someone who is meticulous about their morals and ethics.
The word 'scrupulous' originated from the Latin word 'scrupulosus', which means 'full of scruples'. It first appeared in English in the late 16th century. The term 'scrupulous' has historically been associated with meticulous attention to detail and high moral standards.
See also: scrupulously, unscrupulous.