conscientious

UK: ˌkɒnʃiˈenʃəs | US: ˌkɑːnʃiˈenʃəs

Definition
  1. adj. guided by or in accordance with a sense of right and wrong; meticulous and diligent.

Structure
con <with>sci <know>entious <adjective suffix>con <with>sci <know>entious <adjective suffix>
Etymology

conscientious = con<with> + sci<know> + entious<adjective suffix>

  • con<with>: From Latin cum, meaning "with" or "together."
  • sci<know>: From Latin scire, meaning "to know."
  • entious<adjective suffix>: A suffix forming adjectives, often implying a quality or state (e.g., contentious, pretentious).

Etymology Origin:
The word conscientious traces back to Latin conscientia ("knowledge within oneself, moral awareness"), combining con- (intensive) + scire ("to know"). Over time, it evolved to describe someone who acts with careful attention to moral principles or duty. The suffix -ious was added in English to form the adjective, emphasizing a character trait of thoroughness and ethical awareness.

Examples
  1. She is a conscientious worker who always meets deadlines.

  2. The teacher praised him for being conscientious about his studies.

  3. A conscientious voter researches candidates before elections.

  4. His conscientious approach to safety prevented accidents.

  5. The doctor was conscientious in explaining the treatment options.