Pedant

usgb/ˈpednt/
noun

A person who cares too much about small, unimportant details, especially in learning.

His attention to minute details can make him come across as a pedant.
Visual representation of "pedant" - A person who cares too much about small, unimportant details, especially in learning

Often appears as...

  • be a pedant
  • come across as a pedant

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pedant"
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Excessive Detail

A pedant goes beyond necessary detail, often missing the bigger picture or main point.

Illustration for Excessive Detail
While editing my essay, I was such a pedant that I focused on comma placement rather than the argument.
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Negative Connotation

Being called a pedant usually suggests annoyance; it's not typically a compliment.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
She called me a pedant when I corrected her pronunciation again.
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Not Just Academics

'Pedant' can refer to anyone overly concerned with details, not just in learning.

Illustration for Not Just Academics
He's such a pedant about his lawn, plucking out every tiny weed.
Visual representation of the word "Pedant"

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