Pronunciation: [kwˈɪbə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "quibble" is spelled as /ˈkwɪb əl/. The first syllable "quib" is pronounced with the /kw/ sound, which represents the combination of "k" and "w". The second syllable "ble" ends with the silent letter "e", which signifies that the preceding vowel "i" is pronounced as a long vowel sound /aɪ/. The word "quibble" is a verb that refers to a minor objection or criticism, often used to avoid answering a more substantial question.
Quibble is a verb that refers to the act of raising petty or trivial objections or criticisms, often in a contentious or argumentative manner. When someone quibbles, they engage in nitpicking or finding fault with inconsequential details, rather than addressing the main issue or topic at hand.
As a noun, quibble is the argument or objection itself, often characterized by a careful or hairsplitting distinction that is largely irrelevant. It can also be used to describe an equivocation or play on words used to intentionally avoid giving a direct or straightforward answer.
Quibbling typically involves a person engaging in semantic or formalistic disputes, using clever words or technicalities to evade the crux of the matter. This can often occur during debates, negotiations, or any situation where two parties express differing opinions or perspectives.
Quibbles are often seen as irritants or obstacles to reaching a resolution, as they can detract from the main point and create unnecessary confusion or delay. However, in some cases, quibbling may serve a purpose in highlighting inconsistencies, revealing logical fallacies, or challenging assumptions.
Overall, the term "quibble" carries a negative connotation, suggesting that someone is being overly pedantic or argumentative about insignificant details rather than addressing the broader issue constructively.
• A petty or contemptible evasion; a petty cavil; a pretence.
• To evade by artifice, or by a play upon words; to cavil in argument or discourse.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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.
The word "quibble" originated from the Middle English term "quiblen", which in turn came from the Old French word "quibler". Its ultimate origin lies in the Latin word "quibus", which means "by what". Originally, "quibble" referred to a pun or a play on words, often used in jest or as a clever retort. Over time, its meaning broadened to include any petty or trivial objection or argument.
