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Pettifoggery: meaning, definitions and examples

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pettifoggery

 

[ ˌpɛtɪˈfɒɡəri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

legal context

Pettifoggery refers to the act of engaging in petty or trivial legal matters, often characterized by the use of deceitful or frivolous tactics. It involves a focus on insignificant details rather than the substance of the law or a legal case. This practice can undermine the integrity of legal proceedings and may involve manipulative behaviors designed to mislead, confuse, or distract. Those who engage in pettifoggery may be referred to as pettifoggers, who often prioritize personal gain over ethical considerations in the legal profession.

Synonyms

deceit, quibbling, sophistry, trickery.

Examples of usage

  • The attorney was criticized for his pettifoggery in court.
  • Pettifoggery can lead to a waste of valuable judicial resources.
  • She deemed his arguments to be pure pettifoggery.
  • The judge had little patience for pettifoggery during the proceedings.

Translations

Translations of the word "pettifoggery" in other languages:

🇵🇹 astúcia

🇮🇳 छोटी-मोटी बातें

🇩🇪 Kleinlichkeit

🇮🇩 kecerdikan

🇺🇦 дріб'язковість

🇵🇱 drobiazgowość

🇯🇵 小賢しいこと

🇫🇷 petites manigances

🇪🇸 astucia

🇹🇷 hilekarlık

🇰🇷 교활함

🇸🇦 خداع

🇨🇿 malichernost

🇸🇰 malichernosť

🇨🇳 小心眼

🇸🇮 majhnarija

🇮🇸 smugur

🇰🇿 кішкентай айла

🇬🇪 ბრიყვობა

🇦🇿 kiçik hiylə

🇲🇽 astucia

Etymology

The term 'pettifoggery' has its roots in the early 16th century, originating from the words 'petty' and 'foggery.' The word 'petty' derives from the Old French 'petit,' meaning small or insignificant. It indicates matters of little importance. 'Foggery' comes from 'fog,' which is associated with confusion or obscurity. Together, they describe behavior that focuses on trivial details to the detriment of more substantive issues. Over time, 'pettifoggery' gained prominence within the legal realm, often used to criticize attorneys who employ underhanded or superficial tactics. Its negative connotation reflects a disdain for those who sacrifice ethical standards for personal or financial gain, highlighting concerns about the conduct of some legal practitioners. Throughout history, pettifoggery has been a topic of discussion in legal circles, emphasizing the need for integrity and professionalism in law.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,657, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.