scrupulous

/ˈskɹu.pjə.ləs/

Group 4Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(adjective)
Diligent, thorough, and extremely attentive to details; very concerned to avoid doing wrong
GRE

Example in Context

The archivist was scrupulous in her handling of the fragile manuscripts, following preservation protocols with meticulous precision.

Synonyms

thoroughcarefulprincipled

Etymology

Refers to being diligent and meticulous in avoiding wrongdoing.

  • scrupulus (Latin) — a small stone causing anxiety

Memory Aid

🔩Sounds like “screw plus

Imagine a mechanic who SCREWS in every tiny bolt PLUS checks for perfection — that's SCRUPULOUS!

Visual Association

🔍A conscientious worker examining every detail of a project with a magnifying glass, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “scrupulous” mean on the GRE?

scrupulous (adjective) means “Diligent, thorough, and extremely attentive to details; very concerned to avoid doing wrong”. The archivist was scrupulous in her handling of the fragile manuscripts, following preservation protocols with meticulous precision.

How to remember “scrupulous” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “scrupulous” sounds like “screw plus”. Imagine a mechanic who SCREWS in every tiny bolt PLUS checks for perfection — that's SCRUPULOUS!

What are synonyms for “scrupulous”?

Common synonyms: thorough, careful, principled.