noun

attention to detail

uh-TEN-shuhn tuh DEE-tayl

Attention to detail (noun) means the habit of noticing and getting right the small parts of a task, so that the finished work has no errors or loose ends. Example: “The role calls for strong attention to detail and the ability to work to a deadline.”

noun

The habit of noticing and getting right the small parts of a task, so that the finished work has no errors or loose ends.

"The role calls for strong attention to detail and the ability to work to a deadline."

"His attention to detail is why the accounts always balance first time."

The visible care taken over small features of a made or designed thing, such as stitching, joinery or finish.

"The attention to detail on the panelling is extraordinary."

How to use attention to detail

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishNoticing the small things and getting them right.

When to use it

Neutral, and near-universal in job adverts and CVs, where it is often criticised as a cliché unless backed with an example.

Memory tip

On a CV, show it rather than claim it: give a number, a process or an error rate instead of the phrase alone.

Easily confused with

perfectionism → diligence → thoroughness →

Common pairings

excellent attention to detail strong attention to detail meticulous attention to detail lack of attention to detail pay attention to detail

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The role calls for strong _____ and the ability to work to a deadline.

Synonyms

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thoroughness meticulousness rigour precision care craftsmanship finish

Antonyms

carelessness sloppiness

Related words

end care start stop service deal kill complete

Rhymes for attention to detail

rail tail pail mail nail sail fail hail jail vail bail wail

See all rhymes for attention to detail →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between attention to detail and perfectionism?

Attention to detail means catching the things that matter and finishing to standard. Perfectionism means being unable to stop refining even after the standard is met, and it often costs time and deadlines rather than saving them.

How do you show attention to detail on a CV?

Replace the phrase with evidence: proofread the document to zero typos, cite a concrete result such as reconciling accounts with no adjustments for two years, or describe a checking process you built. Recruiters treat the bare phrase as filler.

What is the meaning of attention to detail?

"attention to detail" (noun) means the habit of noticing and getting right the small parts of a task, so that the finished work has no errors or loose ends.

What is another word for attention to detail?

Other words for "attention to detail" include thoroughness, meticulousness, rigour, precision, care, craftsmanship.

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