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Definitions

pettifog

[pet-ee-fog, -fawg] / ˈpɛt iˌfɒg, -ˌfɔg /
VERB
quibble
Synonyms
STRONG
altercate argufy avoid bicker carp cavil chicane criticize dispute equivocate evade fence flip-flop hassle niggle nitpick pretend prevaricate shift spar squabble waffle wrangle
WEAK
argue over blow hot and cold catch at straws have at it hem and haw hypercriticize make a big thing about nit-pick paralogize pick to pieces put up an argument set to split hairs talk back
Antonyms
STRONG
agree concur face give in meet tell the truth

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

To pettifog is ‘to engage in legal chicanery’ or ‘to quibble over insignificant details,’” the dictionary advised.

From Washington Times • Feb. 2, 2020

Thurston then proceeds to pettifog about his injunction to keep his letter to Congress about the Donation Land Bill "dark till next mail."

From Dr. John McLoughlin, the Father of Oregon by Holman, Frederick Van Voorhies

It wouldn't do me any good to pettifog in this matter.

From Opening a Chestnut Burr by Roe, Edward Payson

From the time that Charlton began to pettifog with his conscience, he began to lose peace of mind.

From The Mystery of Metropolisville by Eggleston, Edward

The popular understanding of the word criticize is to find fault, to pettifog.

From Plum Pudding Of Divers Ingredients, Discreetly Blended & Seasoned by Morley, Christopher