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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hairsplitting
  1. subtle
  2. delicate
  3. fine
  4. exact
Adjective
  • Coleman said each design has its own distinct character and can be styled individually, either as a subtle everyday detail or a sculptural statement.
    — Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
  • As the researchers saw, introducing random mutation could still make subtle structural tweaks that produced enzymes that were considerably more active.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of subtle
Adjective
  • The duo launches alongside a tapered blending brush designed for gentle, precise application on the delicate skin under your eyes.
    — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Apple’s advertising hasn’t always shown such a delicate touch.
    — Tatiana Sataua, Fortune, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of delicate
Adjective
  • More offices reported investments in luxury assets, from watches, fine jewelry, art and spirits to sports teams and music rights.
    — Molly A. Wallace, Fortune, 16 Oct. 2026
  • This is apparently perfectly fine with the US justice system.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of fine
Adjective
  • Even better, Molly is the exact right amount of Instagram accessible while still being kept at a classy remove.
    — Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 14 Oct. 2026
  • The notices will include specific information about their 2027 benefits, including exact payment dates and dollar amounts as well as any deductions.
    — Lorie Konish, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2026
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.

Browse Nearby Words

hairsplitters
hairsplitting
hairstyle
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Cite this Entry

“Hairsplitting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hairsplitting. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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