# methodical

/məˈθɑdəkəɫ/ (US) · /mɛθˈɒdɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/methodical
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

doing things in a very careful and organized way. You use this to describe someone who follows a clear plan to make sure they do not miss anything.

For teachers: characterised by ordered and systematic habits or procedures. Often used to describe a person's work ethic or a specific process that follows a logical sequence.

## Examples

- She is very methodical when she cleans the kitchen.
- The detective was methodical in his search, checking every drawer and corner of the room for evidence.
- A methodical approach to data entry significantly reduces the likelihood of clerical errors that could compromise the entire research project.

## Usage notes

- Typically used to describe people or their working methods; often carries a positive connotation of reliability.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.