Which of the following best captures the meaning of 'meticulous'?

• A. Extremely concerned with details
• B. Finicky
• C. Thorough and precise
• D. Careful in every action

Answer: (C)

Meticulous describes a way of working that pays close attention to every detail and aims for exactness in results. It isn’t just about being careful; it’s about a thorough, disciplined approach that strives for precision in every step.

Thorough and precise best captures this idea because it combines both the completeness of checking all aspects (thorough) with the accuracy of doing things exactly right (precise). This reflects the hallmark of meticulous work: not missing details and ensuring high accuracy.

While related, the other options don’t fit as well. Finicky suggests fussiness or a negative picky attitude more than a focus on quality. Being extremely concerned with details points to a mindset rather than the actual quality of work. And being careful in every action describes caution, but it doesn’t necessarily convey the depth of detail and precision that meticulous implies.