hairsplitting

adjective

Definition of hairsplittingnext
as in subtle
made or done with extreme care and accuracy usage experts have attempted to make some hairsplitting distinctions between the two words, but most writers blithely ignore them

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hairsplitting
  1. subtle
  2. delicate
  3. fine
  4. exact
Adjective
  • The palate has a mix of caramel, cinnamon sugar, and subtle spice, which offers a rich, layered experience.
    Maggie Menderski, The Courier-Journal, 14 Dec. 2024
  • The Cognac is complex, featuring plum, fig, and licorice notes, a rich, spicy finish, and subtle vanilla undertones.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024
Definition of subtle
Adjective
  • The cozy sweater features delicate pearl details along the front, oversized billowy sleeves, and a flattering V-neck design.
    ​​Taylor Jean Stephan, People.com, 17 Dec. 2024
  • The team then starts another long, delicate task: preparing the pig kidneys for implantation.
    Rob Stein, NPR, 17 Dec. 2024
Definition of delicate
Adjective
  • Users can also indicate their budget for dinner as the app works with various types of restaurants (casual, fine dining, etc.).
    Kailyn Brown, Los Angeles Times, 17 Dec. 2024
  • But they’re still regarded as a fine place that develops MLB talent overall.
    Johnny Flores, The Athletic, 17 Dec. 2024
Definition of fine
Adjective
  • An exact closing date wasn’t announced, but it’s expected to shutter in February.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 18 Dec. 2024
  • Episodes routinely attract millions of viewers and listeners across platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, however, the exact earnings remain undisclosed.
    Tim Ryan, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024
Definition of exact
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Thesaurus Entries Near hairsplitting

hairsplitters

hairsplitting

hairstyle

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Hairsplitting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hairsplitting. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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