quibble
/ˈkwɪbəl/
Group 28Difficulty 1/3
Definitions
- (verb)
- To argue or raise objections about a trivial matter GRE
- (noun)
- A slight objection or criticism GRE
Example in Context
Rather than addressing the report's central findings, opponents chose to quibble over methodology, hoping to distract from the uncomfortable conclusions.
Synonyms
nitpickarguecomplain
Etymology
Derived from a term meaning to argue over trivial matters.
- quibble (Middle English) — to argue or raise petty objections
Memory Aid
🐭Sounds like “quick nibble”
A mouse takes a QUICK NIBBLE of cheese, then starts QUIBBLING about which piece is better!
Visual Association
⚖️Two tiny mice on a scale, arguing over a crumb, their tiny voices arguing with exaggerated gestures.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “quibble” mean on the GRE?
quibble (verb) means “To argue or raise objections about a trivial matter”. Rather than addressing the report's central findings, opponents chose to quibble over methodology, hoping to distract from the uncomfortable conclusions.
How to remember “quibble” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “quibble” sounds like “quick nibble”. A mouse takes a QUICK NIBBLE of cheese, then starts QUIBBLING about which piece is better!
What are synonyms for “quibble”?
Common synonyms: nitpick, argue, complain.