Cavilled: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'cavil' comes from the Latin 'cacivus', which means 'to quibble' or 'to jest'.
• It entered English in the 16th century, originally referring to a trivial objection.
• Cavilling can be linked to the idea of nitpicking, where people focus on minor faults during discussions.

Legal Context

• In legal terms, cavilling can be used to describe a party's focus on minor flaws in an argument rather than settled issues.
• Lawyers might use this tactic to distract from the main point of the case.
• Cavilling often leads to lengthy debates and compromises, complicating resolution.

Psychology

• Engaging in cavilling can sometimes indicate insecurity, as individuals may nitpick to assert control.
• It may also stem from perfectionism, where one feels compelled to fix small issues to achieve ideal outcomes.
• People who frequently cavil might find it hard to maintain relationships due to their focus on trivial matters.

Philosophy

• Philosophers have examined cavilling as a tactic to undermine serious discourse, causing distractions from important debates.
• The term illustrates how seemingly minor disagreements can escalate into larger conflicts.
• Cavilling can represent a deeper unease about the underlying issues in a discussion.

Literature

• Cavilling characters often appear in literature to create comedic or frustrating scenarios, highlighting human nature.
• Classic novels have depicted characters who engage in cavilling, showcasing societal critiques about triviality.
• Cavilling can serve as a narrative device to propel conflict and tension in storytelling.

At position #40,295, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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