nitpick

or nit-pick

[ nit-pik ]

verb (used without object)

1. to be excessively concerned with or critical of inconsequential details.

verb (used with object)

1. to criticize by focusing on inconsequential details.

noun

1. a carping, petty criticism.

adjective

1. Also nit·pick·y. of, relating to, or characteristic of a person who nitpicks:

   a nitpick review of the miniseries.

Word History and Origins

Origin of nitpick¹

First recorded in 1965–70; nit ¹ + pick ¹

Example Sentences

While LaPaglia maintained that her aim with the episode was not to “nitpick everything he’s ever done” but to “speak up for other survivors,” she recalled a few alleged examples of Bryan’s behavior.

From Los Angeles Times

While she knows that there have been some complaints online about how Lydia hasn’t changed her hairstyle in nearly 40 years, Ryder dismisses those nitpicks.

From Los Angeles Times

Policy details at this stage of a campaign do little but give opponents and pundits grist for nitpicking.

From Los Angeles Times

"You can nitpick and things like that. For me, if you asked me three years ago whether I'd be on this team... it's just a real honour."

From BBC

"I have serious questions about whether anthology series should actually be considered dramas . . ." Didn't we resolve this nitpick years ago?

From Salon