Pettiness

Pronunciation: /ˈpɛtiˌnɪs/

Definitions of pettiness

noun the quality of being petty or having a narrow focus on small and insignificant details

Example Sentences

A1 Her pettiness over small things often causes unnecessary arguments.

A2 I try to ignore his pettiness and focus on the bigger picture.

B1 Dealing with her constant pettiness can be exhausting.

B2 His pettiness knows no bounds, making it difficult to work with him.

C1 The pettiness displayed by some politicians is disappointing and unproductive.

C2 She was known for her pettiness and inability to let go of grudges.

Examples of pettiness in a Sentence

formal The pettiness of their arguments was evident during the meeting.

informal I can't stand the pettiness between those two coworkers.

slang Why are you being so petty about it?

figurative The pettiness of his actions only served to highlight his insecurities.

Grammatical Forms of pettiness

• plural: pettinesses
• comparative: pettier
• superlative: pettiest
• present tense: is petty
• future tense: will be petty
• perfect tense: has been petty
• continuous tense: is being petty
• singular: pettiness
• positive degree: petty
• infinitive: to be petty
• gerund: pettying
• participle: pettied

Origin and Evolution of pettiness

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'pettiness' originated from the Middle English word 'peti', meaning small or insignificant.

Evolution of the word: Over time, 'pettiness' has evolved to describe behavior or attitudes that are small-minded, trivial, or unimportant.