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How to Say "meticulous" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “meticulous” is “minucioso” — use this when referring to a person's thoroughness or the detailed nature of a task, like an examination or a plan.

English → Spanish

minucioso

mee-noo-SYOH-sohminuˈθjoso

adjectiveB1general
Use this when referring to a person's thoroughness or the detailed nature of a task, like an examination or a plan.
A person using a magnifying glass to carefully examine the tiny details of a green leaf.

Examples

El detective hizo un examen minucioso de la escena.

The detective did a thorough examination of the scene.

Ella es muy minuciosa con la limpieza de su casa.

She is very meticulous with the cleaning of her house.

Publicaron un informe minucioso sobre el cambio climático.

They published a detailed report on climate change.

Matching the Word Ending

This word must change to match the person or thing it describes. Use 'minucioso' for masculine items, 'minuciosa' for feminine, and add an 's' for plurals.

Word Order

In most cases, place 'minucioso' after the noun it describes (e.g., 'un plan minucioso') to sound most natural.

Confusing with 'Minute'

Mistake: “Using 'minucioso' to mean 'a small amount of time'.”

Correction: Use 'minuto' for time. 'Minucioso' is about the quality of being detailed, not the duration of 60 seconds.

adjectiveB1general
This is best for describing something that has been done with great attention to detail, often referring to the state of being well-maintained or cared for.

Examples

Los jardines del palacio están muy cuidados.

The palace gardens are very well-kept.

curioso

koo-ree-OH-sokuˈɾjo.so

adjectiveB2general
Use this when the emphasis is on being careful and precise in a way that shows skill or attention, often applied to craftsmanship or detailed work.
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-sohre.liˈxjo.so

adjectiveB2general
This translation is used when someone is extremely careful and precise, almost to the point of being rigid or unwavering in their method.
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).

Minucioso vs. Cuidadoso

Learners often confuse 'minucioso' and 'cuidadoso'. Remember that 'minucioso' typically describes the *process* or *person* being thorough, while 'cuidadoso' often describes the *result* of careful attention, like something being well-maintained or kept.

Related Translations

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