thor·ough /ˈTHərō/ Learn to pronounce adjective complete with regard to every detail; not superficial or partial. "planners need a thorough understanding of the subject" Similar: rigorous in-depth exhaustive thoroughgoing minute detailed close meticulous scrupulous assiduous conscientious painstaking methodical careful sedulous complete comprehensive elaborate full intensive extensive widespread sweeping searching all-embracing all-inclusive Opposite: superficial cursory partial performed or written with great care and completeness. "officers have made a thorough examination of the wreckage" Similar: meticulous scrupulous assiduous conscientious painstaking punctilious methodical careful attentive diligent industrious persevering laborious hard-working Opposite: careless taking pains to do something carefully and completely. "the Canadian authorities are very thorough"