Pettifogging

usgb/ˈpetɪfɔːɡɪŋ/
adjective

Making too much importance of petty, unimportant details.

The teacher's pettifogging rules about the classroom irritated the students.
Visual representation of "pettifogging" - Making too much importance of petty, unimportant details

Often appears as...

  • pettifogging details
  • pettifogging rules

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "pettifogging"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Trivial Matters

Pettifogging often implies undue attention is being paid to trivial things that are not very important.

Illustration for Trivial Matters
His pettifogging complaints about the event's font size were annoying.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Tone

Using 'pettifogging' suggests a negative judgment about someone's focus on minor details.

Illustration for Negative Tone
The pettifogging critic focused on the painting's smallest flaws.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Annoyance Expression

Expressing annoyance or frustration with someone, 'pettifogging' conveys their actions are irritating.

Illustration for Annoyance Expression
I'm tired of your pettifogging over the schedule.
Visual representation of the word "Pettifogging"

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