Word of the Day: Punctilious
/pəng(k)-ti-lē-əs/, adjective:
1. rigid or precise accordance with the details of codes or (social) conventions
“The more unpopular an opinion is, the more necessary is it that the holder should be somewhat punctilious in his observance of conventionalities generally, and that, if possible, he should get the reputation of being well-to-do in the world.” Samuel Butler, 1835 – 1902
“If the quickness of the mind and the fluency of the tongue are too punctilious and sharp, moderate them in your activity and rest.” Xun Zi, c. 310 BCE – c. 235 BCE
“Amity itself can only be maintained by reciprocal respect, and true friends are punctilious equals.” Herman Melville, 1819 – 1891
2. showing great attention to detail; accuracy
“Where are the dogs going? You people who pay so little attention ask. They are going about their business. And they are very punctilious, without wallets, notes, and without briefcases.” Charles Baudelaire, 1821 – 1867