i Register
In some senses, quibble is marked as archaic, informal, rare. Watch for register when choosing this word.
quibble
/ˈkwɪbəl/
noun 2verb 2
Collocations
5ADJ.
over, trivial
VERB + QUIBBLE
don't, harped, let's, time
QUIBBLE + NOUN
product, terminology, words
PREP.
about, on, with
ADV.
bitterly
Definitions
noun
1
An argument or objection based on an ambiguity of wording or similar trivial circumstance; a minor complaint.
He harped on his quibble about how the dark red paint should be described as carmine rather than burgundy.
Quibbles […]have no place in the search after truth.
2
A pun.
Is it a quibble, or play upon words?
This is a quibble between council and counsel. The latter word is still used to imply secrecy; as in the phrase, "keep your own counsel."
verb
1
To complain or argue in a trivial or petty manner.
They are constantly quibbling over insignificant details.
“Oh, if you talk in that sense!” said Mr. Standish, with as much disgust at such non-legal quibbling as a man can well betray towards a valuable client.
2
To contest, especially some trivial issue in a petty manner.
The customer quibbled the bill.
Thesaurus
Idioms & Phrases
Example Bank
601
He harped on his quibble about how the dark red paint should be described as carmine rather than burgundy.
Wiktionary02
Quibbles […]have no place in the search after truth.
Wiktionary03
Toward the end of “Galatea,” there are a few missteps: […] All in all, though, these are minor quibbles.
Wiktionary04
They are constantly quibbling over insignificant details.
Wiktionary05
“Oh, if you talk in that sense!” said Mr. Standish, with as much disgust at such non-legal quibbling as a man can well betray towards a valuable client.
Wiktionary06
“I dog no one, Mr. Temple,” I replied bitterly. “We'll not quibble about words,” said he.
WiktionaryUsage Notes
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