Pedantic

usgb/pɪˈdæntɪk/
adjective

Caring too much about small and unimportant details.

Tom is such a pedantic boss, he always points out the smallest mistakes in everybody's work.
Visual representation of "pedantic" - Caring too much about small and unimportant details.

Often appears as...

  • pedantic about details
  • overly pedantic

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "pedantic"
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Negative Connotation

The word 'pedantic' often implies that being detail-oriented is excessive and unwanted.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Her pedantic approach to editing overshadowed the story's creativity.
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Criticism & Irritation

Describing someone as 'pedantic' can suggest you're irritated by their focus on trivia.

Illustration for Criticism & Irritation
I wish he'd stop being so pedantic about my spelling errors.
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Misunderstood Thoroughness

Sometimes 'pedantic' is mistaken for being thorough or meticulous, which can be positive.

Illustration for Misunderstood Thoroughness
Although he's pedantic, his careful nature has saved us from many errors.
Word comparison image

Compare with

didacticdogmaticfussyobsessiveperfectionprecisepriggishpunctiliousscholar
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Visual representation of the word "Pedantic"

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