methodical
Methodical (adjective) means Done in a careful, orderly, step-by-step way. Example: “The detective took a methodical approach to solving the case.”
How to use methodical
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOrganized, careful, and systematic rather than random or rushed.
Word forms
more methodical comparative, most methodical superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The detective took a _____ approach to solving the case.
Etymology
From Greek methodikos ("systematic") + the suffix -al.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for methodical
See all rhymes for methodical →Frequently asked questions
What does “methodical” mean?
The word “methodical” means done in a careful, orderly, step-by-step way. In plain terms, organized, careful, and systematic rather than random or rushed.
How do you pronounce “methodical”?
“Methodical” is pronounced mih-THAH-dih-kuhl (/mɪˈθɑdɪkəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “methodical” in a sentence?
Here is “methodical” used in a sentence: “The detective took a methodical approach to solving the case.”
What is another word for “methodical”?
Words with a similar meaning to “methodical” include systematic, codified, orderly, regular, scientific and systemative.
What is the opposite of “methodical”?
The opposite of “methodical” — its antonyms — are asystematic, desultory, flounderish, haphazard and unmethodical.
What part of speech is “methodical”?
“Methodical” is an adjective.
Where does the word “methodical” come from?
The word “methodical” comes from Greek. From Greek methodikos ("systematic") + the suffix -al.
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