Inklingo

How to Say "meticulous" in Spanish

English → Spanish
adjectiveB1general
Use 'cuidadoso' when referring to something that has been done with great attention to detail, often implying careful maintenance or upkeep.

Examples

Los jardines del palacio están muy cuidados.

The palace gardens are very well-kept.

curioso

/koo-ree-OH-so//kuˈɾjo.so/

adjectiveB2general
Choose 'curioso' when describing a task or action performed with great precision and carefulness, highlighting the skillful execution.
A cartoon mouse wearing spectacles meticulously using a tiny pair of tweezers to place a single blue bead onto a patterned surface.

Examples

El carpintero hizo un trabajo muy curioso con la madera.

The carpenter did a very meticulous job with the wood.

Su caligrafía es curiosa y elegante.

His handwriting is neat and elegant.

Formal Contexts

This meaning is usually found in descriptions of professional or artistic work where attention to detail is highlighted.

religioso

/reh-lee-hee-OH-soh//re.liˈxjo.so/

adjectiveB2general
Employ 'religioso' to describe someone who follows a routine or practice with extreme, almost sacred, precision and unwavering dedication.
A person using a magnifying glass to carefully place a tiny gear into a small mechanical watch.

Examples

Sigue su rutina de ejercicio con un silencio religioso.

He follows his exercise routine with a meticulous silence.

Es muy religioso con sus horarios de comida.

He is very strict about his meal times.

Using 'Con'

When using this word to describe how someone does something, it is often paired with 'con' (with) or used as an adverb 'religiosamente' (religiously/strictly).

Confusing 'cuidadoso' and 'curioso'

Learners often confuse 'cuidadoso' and 'curioso' because both relate to carefulness. Remember that 'cuidadoso' is more about general carefulness and upkeep, while 'curioso' specifically highlights precision in a task or craft.

Related Translations

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