pedanticalness (C2)
noun
Pronunciation: /ˌpɛdənˈtɪkəlnɪs/
Definition
The quality of being excessively concerned with minor details and rules, often to the point of being annoying or unnecessary. This behavior is typically characterized by a focus on trivial aspects of language, behavior, or protocol, and can be seen as a form of intellectual pretentiousness.
Examples
His pedanticalness made him a difficult person to work with, as he would often spend hours debating minor points of grammar.
The editor's pedanticalness was legendary, and authors would often dread receiving their manuscripts back covered in nitpicky comments.
Despite his pedanticalness, the professor was a brilliant scholar and his attention to detail had contributed significantly to his field of study.
How to Use pedanticalness
- pedanticalness about (prepositional phrase)
- excessive concern with minor details or rules regarding something — "He showed pedanticalness about the grammar in the sentence, pointing out every minor error."
- pedanticalness in (prepositional phrase)
- excessive concern with minor details or rules in a particular area or activity — "The academic's pedanticalness in his research was admired by his peers, but also made him difficult to work with."
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