Stickle - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Stickle means to argue or raise objections over small, unimportant details. It is often used to describe someone who insists on minor points in a discussion or negotiation.
Definition:
To argue or raise objections about minor details; hesitate due to scruples.
Synonyms:
quibble, haggle, nitpick, cavil
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
agree, accept
Common Collocations:
stickle over details, stickle at trifles, stickle about rules
Derivatives:
stickler, stickling
Usage Tips:
Use "stickle" when someone fusses over small issues; often implies unnecessary stubbornness.
Common Phrases:
stickle at nothing, stickle for formality, stickle over pennies
Etymology:
Originates from Middle English "stightelen," meaning to arrange or set in order; later evolved to imply fussiness.
Examples:
- 1. She tends to stickle over every tiny expense in the budget.
- 2. Don’t stickle at minor errors when the overall work is excellent.
- 3. He would stickle about the rules even when flexibility was needed.
- 4. They always stickle over who should pay the bill at dinner.