adjective

methodical

muh-THAH-di-kul/məˈθɑːdɪkl/

Done or working in a careful, orderly way.

The methodical worker packs each repair kit in the same careful sequence.

A man systematically packs identical repair kits, working left to right along a neat row of open cases and placing each component in its matching molded recess.

Etymology

metGreekin pursuit of

+hodGreekpath, way

+icalEnglishcharacterized by

The pursuit-and-path image developed into method, an orderly procedure. Methodical describes something characterized by such a procedure, emphasizing organized conduct rather than an improvised approach.

In context

Tehleel Mir 5:00

… this was not an improvised explosive device thrown together in a hurry this was methodical in the midst of the long painstaking investigation

How she manipulated him | The Collar Bomb Heist

More examples

The mechanic makes a methodical inspection before replacing any parts.
He is methodical about checking each figure in the budget.
A methodical search of every drawer finally turns up the receipt.

Forms

methodical · more methodical · most methodical

methodically adverb — In a careful and orderly manner.

Similar words

systematic: Emphasizes following a defined system rather than working carefully.
meticulous: Emphasizes attention to tiny details rather than an orderly process.
orderly: Emphasizes neat arrangement or sequence rather than deliberate care.