Translation guide
Describes someone who pays very careful attention to detail, often in a thorough and precise way. Japanese has several words that capture different nuances, from positive diligence to negative over-caution.
Expressing that someone is extremely careful, precise, and leaves nothing to chance in their work or planning.
A common, positive word for someone who is methodical, orderly, and punctual in their habits and work. Often used to describe a person's character.
He has a meticulous personality, and his desk is always neatly organized.
Literally 'fine' or 'detailed'. When describing a person, it means they pay attention to small details. Can be neutral or slightly negative if implying nitpicking.
She is meticulous and notices even the smallest details.
Describes an action done with great care and thoroughness, often implying extra effort to ensure perfection. Commonly used for preparations, checks, or work.
I made meticulous preparations before the presentation.
Means 'elaborate' or 'minutely detailed', often used for plans, artwork, or thinking. More formal and less common in daily conversation.
Thanks to his meticulous planning, the project was a success.
Describing someone who is so careful that it becomes excessive, often in a negative or critical sense.
Literally 'too detailed'. A straightforward way to say someone is overly meticulous or nitpicky.
He is too meticulous, making it difficult to work with him.
Usually means 'noisy' or 'annoying', but can mean 'fussy' or 'picky' about details. Very casual and often negative.
几帳面 (kitchōmen) describes a person's orderly, methodical nature and is usually positive. 細かい (komakai) focuses on attention to small details and can be neutral or slightly negative. 念入り (nen'iri) describes an action done with extra care and is positive. Use 几帳面 for personality, 細かい for detail-orientation, and 念入り for thorough actions.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'meticulous'. Using a direct translation like 細心 (saishin) is possible but less common. Choose the word that matches the specific nuance you want to convey.
Means 'nervous' or 'high-strung', often implying someone is overly sensitive to details and easily worried. Can be used for meticulousness that stems from anxiety.
She is meticulous to the point of being neurotic about cleaning.
あの上司は細かいことにうるさい。
That boss is meticulous (fussy) about small things.