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

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

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

He had to pettifog or say it was a forgery.

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

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