Definition

The act of making very small or unnecessary distinctions or details, often in a way that is overly precise or nitpicky.

Example

His hairsplitting during the meeting frustrated everyone, as he focused on minor details instead of the main issues.

Conversation

I think we spend too much time on hairsplitting in our discussions.

Yeah, it can get really tedious sometimes.

Exactly! We should focus on the bigger picture instead.

I agree, some things just aren't worth arguing over.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hairsplitting → It is formed from "hair" (from Old English *hæġr*, meaning the fine strands growing from the skin) and "splitting" (from the verb "split", meaning to divide or separate). The word describes the act of making very fine or trivial distinctions, as if dividing hairs.

Memory Tip

Think of the fine strands of 'hair' being 'split' into tiny parts — that's why hairsplitting means making very small distinctions.

Visually Confused Words