Quibble
mediumNegative toneKWIB-ul
verb
Definition
to argue or object over trivial, petty points
Memory hook
QUIBBLE sounds like 'quick nibble': picture someone taking tiny annoying nibbles at trivial details instead of biting into the real issue.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Rather than address the main argument, the critic chose to quibble over a single footnote.”
“They quibbled for an hour about the wording of one clause while the deal stalled.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Rather than address the main argument, the critic chose to ______ over a single footnote.”
Show answer
quibble
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Quibble is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "nitpick" or "cavil" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "concede".
Related GRE Words
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly
allude
To suggest or call attention to indirectly; to hint at
allusion
An indirect reference, especially to something in literature or history
antipathy
a deep, settled feeling of dislike or aversion
appease
To pacify or placate someone by acceding to their demands
apprise
To inform or tell someone about something
Master quibble and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.