quibble
word
Definition
To argue or complain about small, unimportant details instead of focusing on the main issue.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly formal or semi-formal; often used to criticize people focusing on trivialities. Common with 'over': 'quibble over price'. Avoid using for serious disagreements.
Spanish: objeción menor - discutir por detalles menoresPortuguese (BR): reclamação insignificante - discutir detalhes pequenosPortuguese (PT): reclamação insignificante - discutir pormenoresChinese (Simplified): 吹毛求疵 - 挑剔小事Chinese (Traditional): 吹毛求疵 - 挑剔小事Hindi: छोटा ऐतराज़ - छोटी बात पर बहस करनाArabic: جدال تافه - خلاف على تفاصيل صغيرة
Example Sentences
Try not to quibble over every mistake.
basic
Don't quibble about the price; it's already very cheap.
basic
They quibbled over who should do the dishes.
basic
I don't want to quibble about the details—let's just get started.
natural
There's always someone who will quibble over the smallest issue.
natural
We can't afford to quibble when a decision needs to be made quickly.
natural