pettifog

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

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

When his law lies upon his hands he will afford a good pennyworth, and rather pettifog and turn common barreter than be out of employment.

From Character Writings of the 17th Century by Various

Lanny, you, with all your intellect—when you know the oath as well as I—you pettifog like that!

From The Last Shot by Palmer, Frederick

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