Definition

To complain or argue about something that is not important or to make petty objections.

Example

She tends to cavil at the smallest details in the report.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I really don't understand why he always has to cavil about everything.

I know, right? It's like he enjoys finding faults for no reason.

Exactly! Sometimes I wish he would just relax and enjoy the moment.

Totally! Life's too short to cavil over trivial things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A small or unimportant complaint or criticism about something.

Example

His cavil about the report was unnecessary and distracted from the main issues.

Conversation

I think the meeting was productive overall, but there were a few cavil points raised.

Yeah, I noticed that too; some people just love to nitpick.

It's frustrating, especially when the main ideas get lost in their cavil objections.

Definition

To argue or raise objections about something that is not important or to find small faults in something.

Example

She tends to cavil at the details of the project instead of focusing on the bigger picture.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I don't understand why some people always cavil at the smallest details in movies.

Right? It seems unnecessary to focus on tiny flaws.

Exactly! They miss the bigger picture by nitpicking.

Root Explanation

Cavil → It originates from the Latin word 'cavillari' (meaning to quibble or to raise petty objections). The word 'cavil' refers to making trivial or petty objections or criticisms.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is always 'quibbling' or making 'petty objections' — that's what cavil means.

Visually Confused Words