Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
pettifogging
Adjective
/ˈpɛtɪˌfɒgɪŋ/
Definition
Pettifogging refers to engaging in trivial or petty arguments, often in a sly or deceptive manner.
Examples
- His pettifogging arguments distracted the team from the main issue.
- She accused him of pettifogging when he focused on minor details instead of the bigger picture.
- The lawyer’s pettifogging tactics frustrated the judge during the trial.
Meaning
The act of quibbling over insignificant details or issues, typically in a way that is seen as deceitful or petty.
Synonyms
- Trivial
- Petty
- Nitpicking
- Splitting hairs
- Quibbling
