noun an instance of arguing about a trivial matter
verb to argue or raise objections about a trivial matter
adjective engaged in or characterized by petty or trivial argument
In philosophical debates, quibbling refers to the act of using trivial or irrelevant objections to avoid engaging with the main argument.
In literature, characters or authors may engage in quibbling as a rhetorical device to showcase their wit or cleverness.
In legal contexts, quibbling can refer to the act of using technicalities or minor details to avoid addressing the main issue at hand.
In academic writing, quibbling can refer to the act of using overly complex or convoluted language to obscure the main point or argument.
In debates or discussions, quibbling may be used to describe the act of nitpicking or focusing on minor points rather than addressing the main topic.
In writing, quibbling can refer to nitpicking over small details or arguing about trivial matters in order to avoid addressing the main point or issue.
In psychology, quibbling may refer to a defense mechanism where a person uses petty arguments or evasions to avoid confronting uncomfortable truths or emotions.
In legal contexts, quibbling can refer to lawyers engaging in semantic arguments or focusing on minor technicalities to try to undermine the opposing party's case.
Politicians may be accused of quibbling when they dodge direct questions or engage in verbal gymnastics to avoid giving a clear answer.
In debating, quibbling can refer to using clever but irrelevant arguments to distract from the main topic or to confuse opponents.