adjective
scrupulous
SKROO-pyuh-lus/ˈskruːpjələs/
Careful about complying fully with relevant standards.
The scrupulous shopkeeper checks the change and receipt before handing them over.
Etymology
Being characterized by scruples meant being sensitive to doubts and pangs of conscience. This developed into carefully following one's conscience—the connection to acting honestly and correctly.
In context
in no case did he exceed or fall short of strict distributive justice. When this had been done, and all left satisfied, Roque observed to Don Quixote, If this scrupulous exactness were not observed with these fellows
More examples
- She is scrupulous about disclosing any conflicts of interest.
- The crew is scrupulous in following safety rules.
- His scrupulous attention to detail keeps the records accurate.
Forms
scrupulous · more scrupulous · most scrupulous
scrupulously adverb — With strict care for details or principles.
scrupulousness noun — The quality of being careful and principled.
Similar words
- meticulous
- Emphasizes close attention to details rather than moral principles.
- conscientious
- Emphasizes doing one's duty responsibly rather than exact compliance.
- thorough
- Emphasizes completeness, without necessarily suggesting honesty or moral duty.