as in subtle
made or done with extreme care and accuracy
usage experts have attempted to make some hairsplitting distinctions between the two words, but most writers blithely ignore them
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hairsplitting
Adjective
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Throughout her trip to the United States, the Queen has reliably chosen British designers in a subtle showing of sartorial support of her homeland.—
Elise Taylor,
Vanity Fair,
29 Apr. 2026 -
Such subtle tweaks in rhythm and resolution are more subtle, and more rewarding, than a straightforward joke-and-punchline setup.—
Alison Herman,
Variety,
29 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
While discussing the delicate tone of the show and its balance of being a satire on the Hollywood movie business and a love letter to chasing your dream, Cretton said the creative team focused on character to find their way.—
Borys Kit,
HollywoodReporter,
30 Apr. 2026
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Also on view are selections from the Macchia series, known for bold color combinations and ruffled edges, and the delicate Seaforms, which evoke underwater life through translucent layers of glass.—
Ginger Crichton,
Midwest Living,
30 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
These are the finest margins that tight matches like these can be decided on.—
Beren Cross,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2026
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On Friday night, Richardson put together his finest effort of the season, reaching 49 feet, 7 inches on his final hop, step and jump at the Escondido Invitational — traditionally the final invitational of the season.—
Steve Brand,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
The exact reasons are often left vague, and the successors to be determined, but people are leaving.—
Benjamin Wallace-Wells,
New Yorker,
26 Apr. 2026
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The exact number of beds that will be added has yet to be determined.—
Kenneth R. Gosselin,
Hartford Courant,
26 Apr. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Hairsplitting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hairsplitting. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
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