Hairsplitting

C1 16+

Pronunciation: /ˈherˌsplɪtɪŋ/

Definitions of hairsplitting

noun the action or practice of making fine distinctions unnecessarily

Example Sentences

A1 I don't like hairsplitting arguments.

A2 She always gets caught up in hairsplitting details.

B1 The lawyer's hairsplitting over the contract terms delayed the negotiation process.

B2 The professor's hairsplitting analysis of the text revealed hidden meanings.

C1 The hairsplitting debate between the two politicians lasted for hours.

C2 His hairsplitting approach to solving complex problems earned him a reputation for thoroughness.

adjective characterized by excessive attention to minor details

Example Sentences

A1 She is very hairsplitting when it comes to grammar mistakes.

A2 The hairsplitting details in the contract caused confusion among the parties.

B1 The hairsplitting analysis of the data revealed some interesting trends.

B2 The hairsplitting examination of the evidence led to a breakthrough in the case.

C1 His hairsplitting approach to problem-solving often leads to innovative solutions.

C2 The hairsplitting precision of her work set a new standard in the industry.

Examples of hairsplitting in a Sentence

formal The lawyer's hairsplitting arguments in court helped secure a favorable outcome for his client.

informal Stop with the hairsplitting and just tell me what you want for dinner.

slang I can't stand all this hairsplitting over such a small detail.

figurative His hairsplitting approach to problem-solving often leads to unnecessary complications.

Grammatical Forms of hairsplitting

past tense

hairsplit

plural

hairspittings

comparative

more hairsplitting

superlative

most hairsplitting

present tense

hairsplits

future tense

will hairsplit

perfect tense

has hairsplit

continuous tense

is hairsplitting

singular

hairsplitting

positive degree

hairsplitting

infinitive

to hairsplit

gerund

hairsplitting

participle

hairsplitting

Origin and Evolution of hairsplitting

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The term 'hairsplitting' originated from the practice of splitting hairs, which refers to making overly fine distinctions or unnecessary distinctions.
Evolution of the word: Over time, 'hairsplitting' has come to be used figuratively to describe overly meticulous or pedantic argumentation or reasoning.