Quibble: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used when someone is making a small or petty criticism, usually to avoid focusing on the main issue. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• They spent hours quibbling over the color of the napkins instead of planning the event

Used in situations where there is a strong disagreement or conflict. It can be both negative and neutral, depending on the intensity and outcome of the argument.

• They started to argue about politics at the dinner table
• Siblings often argue about toys

Used when there is a disagreement over a factual matter or claim, often involving a strong challenge or confrontation. It can have a negative or neutral connotation.

• The neighbors are in a dispute over property boundaries
• The scientists dispute the findings of the study

Appropriate in formal or academic contexts where two or more sides present arguments on a particular topic in a structured manner. It is neutral and often seen as a constructive form of discussing different views.

• The candidates will debate on the economy this Friday
• The students held a debate on climate change

Used when someone is overly critical, especially of small, insignificant details. It generally has a negative connotation.

• She tends to nitpick about every little thing he does
• Stop nitpicking and look at the bigger picture

Use this word when a minor or petty detail is being debated or nitpicked. It's often used in a context where the issue raised is insignificant compared to the main point.

• Despite the overall agreement on the proposal, she couldn't help but quibble over the wording of one clause

Use this word when someone is formally or strongly expressing disagreement with an idea, proposal, or statement. It's often used in legal, political, or formal debates.

• She raised an objection to the new policy, arguing that it would disproportionately affect low-income families

This word is more general and can be used in any situation where someone is expressing disapproval or noting the faults of something. Criticism can be constructive or negative.

• The movie received a lot of criticism for its lack of originality, but the special effects were praised

This word is used in a formal or slightly archaic context when someone is raising trivial objections. It implies a fault-finding attitude over minor issues.

• The committee members began to cavil at the minor stylistic choices in the report, ignoring its substantial contributions