Fastidiousness

Noun

Definition: The quality or state of being excessively attentive to detail or cleanliness.

Synonyms: Meticulousness, Precision, Punctiliousness

Antonyms: Carelessness, Sloppiness, Negligence

Examples:

Her fastidiousness about grammar made her a great editor.
He was known for his fastidiousness in maintaining a tidy workspace.

Mnemonics:

Think of the word "fastidiousness" as a combination of "fastidious" (picky, precise) and "-ness" (indicating a quality or state).

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "fastidious" comes from Latin "fastidiosus," from "fastidium" meaning "loathing" or "disgust."

Historical Usage:

The word "fastidiousness" has been used since the late 16th century to describe someone's meticulous attention to detail or cleanliness.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In the fastidiousness of his work"

Explanation:

Referring to someone's extreme attention to detail and precision in their work.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "fastidiousness" with "perfectionism."

Explanation:

While related, "fastidiousness" emphasizes meticulousness and attention to detail, while "perfectionism" is more about setting impossibly high standards.