cavilling
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈkæv.ɪ.lɪŋ//
KK: /kævɪlɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of making petty or trivial objections or arguments.
Example
His constant cavilling made it difficult to reach a consensus during the meeting.
Conversation
I can't believe how much cavilling there is about the new policy at work.
I know, right? It's like people just want to argue over nothing.
Exactly! Sometimes it feels like we should focus on the bigger picture instead of all this cavilling.
Totally agree! It's exhausting to hear all the complaints.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
quibbling
nitpicking
fussiness
Antonyms
agreement
acceptance
concurrence
verb
Definition
To make petty or trivial objections or criticisms about something.
Example
She was cavilling at the details of the proposal instead of focusing on the main issues.
Tense Forms
Past: cavilled
Past Participle: cavilled
Conversation
I feel like some people just enjoy cavilling about everything.
Yeah, it can be really frustrating when they nitpick.
Totally! Sometimes it seems like they just want to argue.
Root Explanation
Cavilling → The word originates from the Latin 'cavillari' (meaning to quibble or make petty objections). It describes the act of making trivial or petty objections, often in a way that is nitpicking or overly critical.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who is 'quibbling' or making 'petty objections' — that's what cavilling means.
Visually Confused Words
calling
chilling
calfling
ailing