noun meaning: the practice of engaging in petty or trivial arguments, especially for the sake of delaying or complicating a legal process
In political discourse, pettifoggery can be used to describe the use of deceptive or underhanded tactics to gain an advantage.
In legal contexts, pettifoggery refers to the practice of engaging in petty or unethical legal tactics to achieve a desired outcome.
In discussions of ethics, pettifoggery can be used to criticize behavior that is focused on technicalities rather than moral principles.
During debates or arguments, pettifoggery may refer to the use of overly technical or nitpicky arguments to distract from the main point.
In the legal thriller novel, the main character uncovers a web of pettifoggery within the legal system.
The psychologist was able to see through the client's pettifoggery and get to the root of their issues.
The lawyer was skilled at using pettifoggery to create doubt in the minds of the jury.
The politician was accused of engaging in pettifoggery to avoid answering questions about their campaign finances.