Emerald Book Club
SCRUPULOUS
Someone who is very careful about doing something correctly or doing what is honest and morally right
📘 Definitions
adjective To be extremely careful, thorough, and attentive to detail; having strong moral integrity and a deep concern for doing what is right.
having moral integrity : acting in strict regard for what is considered right or proper
Precise; exact or strict. doing everything correctly and exactly as it should be done
🕰️ Etymology
The word scrupulous originates from the Latin scrupulus, meaning a small sharp stone. Metaphorically, this “sharp stone” represented a nagging feeling of unease—something that pricks the conscience when something is not quite right.
Over time, the word evolved to describe someone who is guided by that inner moral awareness: a person who notices the small details and refuses to ignore them.
Over time, the word evolved to describe someone who is guided by that inner moral awareness: a person who notices the small details and refuses to ignore them.
✍️ Example Sentence
- The Lawyer was srupulous in her preparation for the case, leaving no stone unturned
- “she’s too scrupulous to have an affair with a married man”
- John is a scrupulous person and would never commit a crime
🔁 Synonyms
- Meticulous
- Conscientious
- Ethical
- Principled
- Thorough
- Careful
Each of these highlights an aspect of scrupulousness—attention, responsibility, and moral clarity.
📚 Scrupulous & Emerald Book Club’s Mission
Emerald Book Club exists to inspire and develop readers, writers, and authors, while fostering meaningful connection through literature and conversation. Being scrupulous aligns deeply with this mission.
- As readers, we engage thoughtfully with texts, respecting diverse voices and perspectives.
- As writers, we choose our words carefully, understanding their power to shape thought and emotion.
- As a community, we operate with integrity, inclusivity, and respect—ensuring everyone feels valued and heard.
Scrupulousness reminds us that growth does not come from carelessness, but from intention. From paying attention to stories, to people, and to the responsibility that comes with sharing ideas.
🌱 Why We Love This Word
In a fast-moving world, being scrupulous is a quiet but powerful act. It encourages us to slow down, think deeply, and act ethically—values that sit at the heart of Emerald Book Club’s vision of building a thoughtful, engaged, and connected literary community.
Reflection Prompt:
How can you be more scrupulous in your reading, writing or daily conversations this week?
