How Do You Spell MINUTIAE?

Pronunciation: [mɪnjˈuːʃɪˌiː] (IPA)

The word "minutiae" refers to small or minor details. Its pronunciation is /mɪˈnjuːʃiː/. The first syllable "mi" is spelled with a short "i" sound as in "sit." The second syllable "nu" is pronounced with a long "u" sound as in "put." The third syllable "ti" is pronounced with a short "i" sound like in "sit" again. The fourth syllable "ae" is pronounced as a diphthong, starting with the short "a" sound as in "cat" and ending with a long "e" sound as in "bee."

MINUTIAE Meaning and Definition

  1. Minutiae refers to the small, sometimes seemingly insignificant details or particulars of something. It encompasses the minor or trivial aspects that are often overlooked or unnoticed. The term originates from the Latin word "minutia," meaning "smallness" or "trifles."

    In everyday usage, minutiae are the precise, specific details that constitute a larger whole. It can refer to the finer points or details of a subject, such as a discussion, a task, or an argument. These details may include specific measurements, minute observations, or inconspicuous aspects that may easily be missed but can significantly affect the overall understanding or outcome.

    The term is particularly relevant in various fields, including literature, law, journalism, and scientific research. For instance, in literature, minutiae can be the subtle symbolism, small gestures, or minor character traits that add depth and complexity to a narrative. In law, it can refer to the obscure or technical aspects of a legal case or document that require close attention to ensure accuracy and comprehension.

    Additionally, minutiae can also be associated with personal routines or habits, indicating an excessive focus on trivial matters or an obsession with exactitude. In this sense, it highlights a tendency to become overly concerned with unimportant details or to magnify insignificant issues.

    Overall, minutiae refers to the fine, seemingly insignificant particulars that collectively shape a whole, often requiring careful attention or analysis to comprehend fully.

  2. The smaller particulars or details.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for MINUTIAE *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for MINUTIAE

Etymology of MINUTIAE

The word "minutiae" originated from the Latin word "minuere", which means "to lessen" or "to diminish". In Latin, "minutiae" is the plural form of "minutia", which denotes small or trivial details. The term was then adopted into English in the 18th century, maintaining its meaning of insignificant or minor elements or details.

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