Quibble

/ˈkwɪbəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A slight objection or criticism.

His only quibble with the proposal was its lack of detailed budgeting.

A small or trivial argument or dispute.

They had a quibble about the color of the curtains, but they finally agreed.

verb

To argue or raise objections about a trivial matter.

She didn't want to quibble over the details when the main issue was at stake.

To evade the point of an argument by answering only in terms of the wording.

He tends to quibble when confronted with difficult questions.

Mid 16th century, from the late Latin 'quibblare', to quibble, from 'quibble' (as a noun, meaning a pun or slight objection).

quibble over

to engage in petty arguments about

quibble with

to argue or disagree with someone about insignificant details

no quibble

without any doubt or reluctance

cavil

to raise trivial objections or complaints.

nitpick

to look for small or unimportant errors or faults.

to complain about something trivial

Stop quibbling and just make a decision!

to engage in pointless arguing

They're just quibbling over nothing in that meeting.