Minutia: meaning, definitions and examples

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minutia

[mɪˈnjuːtiːə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

details

Minutia refers to the small, precise, or trivial details of something. Often used in context to underscore that these small matters might seem insignificant but could also be crucial in understanding a larger picture.

Synonyms

details, fine points, nuances, small things, trivia.

Examples of usage

The lawyer focused on the minutiae of the contract.
In art, the minutiae of brushwork can define a masterpiece.
He got lost in the minutiae of the report, forgetting the main argument.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

specificity

Minutia can also imply a level of specificity that might not be necessary to the overall analysis or discussion. It emphasizes the importance of paying attention to every possible detail in a given context.

Synonyms

fine details, insignificant points, small elements, specifics.

Examples of usage

The project manager was criticized for obsessing over minutiae instead of the plan's big picture.
Understanding the minutiae can greatly enhance your comprehension of the subject.
The committee spent hours discussing the minutiae of the proposal.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'minutia', meaning 'smallness' or 'small details'.
This word was first used in English in the late 17th century, reflecting a focus on detail.
The prefix 'mini-' hints at small size, showing the word's link to little elements.

Literature

Authors often use minutiae to build rich worlds and develop characters through specific details.
In novels, focusing on minutia can evoke emotions and create vivid imagery for readers.
Classic literature sometimes highlights small details to symbolize larger themes or ideas.

Psychology

Attention to minutiae can enhance creativity by encouraging observation and mindfulness.
People who focus on small details may experience 'analysis paralysis', making decisions harder.
In social interactions, noticing minutiae about others can signal empathy and attentiveness.

Science

In research, minutiae are essential for accurate data collection and analysis.
Minutiae of DNA are used in forensic science to identify individuals uniquely.
Biologists study the minutiae of ecosystems to understand complex interactions within nature.

Pop Culture

Movies and TV shows often feature characters who obsess over minutiae, leading to comedic moments.
In some popular video games, finding small details can unlock achievements or hidden stories.
Documentaries sometimes emphasize minutiae to highlight the nuances of a particular subject matter.

Translations

Translations of the word "minutia" in other languages:

🇵🇹 minúcia

🇮🇳 सूक्ष्मता

🇩🇪 Minutiae

🇮🇩 rincian

🇺🇦 дрібниця

🇵🇱 drobnostka

🇯🇵 細部

🇫🇷 minutie

🇪🇸 minucias

🇹🇷 ayrıntı

🇰🇷 세부 사항

🇸🇦 تفاصيل دقيقة

🇨🇿 drobnost

🇸🇰 drobnosť

🇨🇳 细节

🇸🇮 podrobnost

🇮🇸 smáatriði

🇰🇿 әбден

🇬🇪 დეტალი

🇦🇿 kiçik detal

🇲🇽 minucias

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,130, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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37127 transfigure
37128 plashing
37129 bereave
37130 minutia
37131 bacchanalian
37132 drooled
37133 dreariest
...