Pettiness: meaning, definitions and examples

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pettiness

[ˈpɛtiˌnɪs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in behavior

Petty behavior is characterized by an undue concern for trivial matters, often resulting in small, spiteful actions.

Synonyms

small-mindedness, spitefulness, vindictiveness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pettiness	Used to describe behavior that is trivial or overly concerned with small or unimportant matters, often in a negative way. Her pettiness about the seating arrangement at the dinner was frustrating everyone His constant pettiness over minor errors was demoralizing the team
small-mindedness	Refers to someone who has narrow views, lacks tolerance, and often focuses on trivial matters, negative connotation. His small-mindedness about cultural differences made it difficult to work with him She was known for her small-mindedness, always finding fault in others' choices
spitefulness	Describes behavior driven by a desire to hurt, annoy, or offend someone, often stemming from malice. His spitefulness was evident when he sabotaged her project She spoke with spitefulness, aiming to insult and demean her colleague
vindictiveness	Characterizes a strong desire for revenge and a willingness to cause pain or harm to others, highly negative connotation. His vindictiveness after the breakup led him to spread false rumors about his ex She acted with vindictiveness, making sure her actions were as hurtful as possible

Examples of usage

Her pettiness was evident in the way she refused to speak to her coworker over a minor disagreement.
I can't stand the pettiness of their constant bickering over insignificant things.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in character

Pettiness can also refer to a lack of generosity or magnanimity, where someone is overly concerned with minor details and unwilling to overlook small mistakes or faults.

Synonyms

grudgingness, meanness, narrow-mindedness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pettiness	Pettiness refers to caring or focusing on trivial matters or details that are not important. It is often used to describe someone's tendency to be overly concerned with small, unimportant things. Her pettiness was evident when she argued about who should pay a few cents more for the coffee. Despite the important issues at hand, his pettiness kept bringing the discussion back to minor errors.
meanness	Meanness generally involves behavior that is unpleasant or unkind, often intentionally hurtful. It carries a strong negative connotation. His meanness was clear when he mocked her in front of everyone. Despite her wealth, her meanness came through when she refused to help the charity.
narrow-mindedness	Narrow-mindedness refers to a lack of willingness to consider different ideas, opinions, or perspectives. It suggests a rigid or limited way of thinking. His narrow-mindedness prevented him from accepting new methods of teaching. She showed her narrow-mindedness by refusing to listen to any opinions different from her own.
grudgingness	Grudgingness describes a person who is reluctant to give, share, or praise. It conveys a sense of unwillingness or bad feeling towards doing something usually expected. He accepted the apology with grudgingness, barely managing a nod. Her grudgingness was obvious when she lent him the book, constantly reminding him to return it.

Examples of usage

His pettiness prevented him from forgiving her for a simple oversight.
The manager's pettiness was evident in the way he nitpicked every minor error made by his employees.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old French 'petit', meaning 'small' or 'little'.
It became popular in English around the late 16th century to describe minor or trivial matters.
Initially used in contexts like 'petiteness', it evolved to emphasize behavior and attitudes toward small matters.

Psychology

Research indicates that people who focus on pettiness may feel insecure or threatened.
Engaging in petty behavior can stem from a desire to control environments where individuals feel powerless.
Psychologists suggest that overcoming pettiness can lead to personal growth and improved relationships.

Social Behavior

Pettiness often manifests in nagging, holding grudges, or nitpicking in social interactions.
It creates a negative atmosphere, causing conflicts that are avoidable in larger contexts.
Studies show that people prefer to associate with those who are generous in spirit rather than petty.

Literature

Many novels explore themes of pettiness to illustrate character flaws or societal issues.
Shakespeare's characters often display pettiness to convey deeper human insecurities.
In short stories, petty actions frequently serve as a commentary on moral dilemmas faced by the characters.

Pop Culture

Movies and TV shows often depict petty rivalries as comedic elements to highlight character flaws.
In social media, pettiness is often highlighted through memes and viral trends showcasing small disputes.
Popular songs sometimes use the theme of petting to convey feelings of jealousy or competition among friends.

Translations

Translations of the word "pettiness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mesquinhez

🇮🇳 छोटी सोच

🇩🇪 Kleinlichkeit

🇮🇩 kecil hati

🇺🇦 дріб'язковість

🇵🇱 małostkowość

🇯🇵 小ささ

🇫🇷 mesquinerie

🇪🇸 mezquindad

🇹🇷 küçüklük

🇰🇷 소인배

🇸🇦 صغر

🇨🇿 malichernost

🇸🇰 malichernosť

🇨🇳 小气

🇸🇮 majhnost

🇮🇸 smámunur

🇰🇿 кішкентайлық

🇬🇪 პატარა აზრი

🇦🇿 kiçiklik

🇲🇽 mezquindad

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,343 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
30340 arrowroot
30341 phosphatidylcholine
30342 swindlers
30343 pettiness
30344 wizened
30345 improvidence
30346 dredger
...