as in complains
to make often peevish criticisms or objections about matters that are minor, unimportant, or irrelevant
you know it drives me crazy when you niggle like that
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in quibbles
Related Words
Dissimilar Words
2
as in anxieties
Related Words
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for niggles
Verb
-
Lauersdorf is always willing to answer constituent concerns, and never complains, said Heritage Homeowners’ Association vice president Jennifer Samuels in a Facebook post promoting the fundraising effort.—
Harrison Mantas,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
27 Apr. 2026 -
The narrator in Pseudo-Quintilian’s fiction complains of the unfairness of the bout.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
15 Apr. 2026
Noun
-
When Joseph pops his head into the studio, insisting, over Gordy’s objections, that Michael has taken up too much of his time, Michael hugs Gordy goodbye.—
Paul A. Thompson,
Pitchfork,
27 Apr. 2026
-
Hegseth forced out the army chief of staff, General Randy George, a close ally of Driscoll’s, despite Driscoll’s objections.—
Michael Scherer,
The Atlantic,
27 Apr. 2026
Noun
-
After Friday, Johnson should have no qualms about playing his two rookies together anymore.—
Jeff McDonald,
San Antonio Express-News,
25 Apr. 2026
-
The coach has no qualms about dropping him back into the lineup versus the Stars.—
Jess Myers,
Twin Cities,
17 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
The Freight House building creaks and moans underfoot, and passing trains produce little more than a subtle hum.—
Nicole Letts,
Southern Living,
28 Feb. 2026
-
Back in the car, Albert moans and groans while Billie shrieks in panic.—
Jordan Hoffman,
Entertainment Weekly,
23 Feb. 2026
Noun
-
Detroit’s catchers have issued the third-fewest challenges in the league, despite boasting the highest success rate.—
Zack Meisel,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2026
-
But federal courts have routinely rejected the administration’s efforts in challenges brought by states.—
Rick Pearson,
Chicago Tribune,
27 Apr. 2026
Noun
-
Trump has said the project would rely on private donations, raising concerns about donors seeking influence.—
Daniel Cassady,
ARTnews.com,
28 Apr. 2026
-
Beyond that, Garrett said the move was driven by concerns – shared by many educators – that much of the homework students are assigned – especially in math – is needlessly repetitive, takes too long to complete and hasn't adapted to the challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence.—
Ariel Gilreath,
NPR,
28 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
So your first indication of problems can be a client who nitpicks every job, forcing you to return to re-trim the 2-inch patch of sod that the client claims wasn’t properly manicured.—
Kathy Kristof,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
12 Jan. 2026
-
But Brian constantly nitpicks her purchases.—
Kamaron McNair,
CNBC,
7 Aug. 2025
Noun
-
David Vazquez came up with the ball and attacked from left of the goal, attempting a shot that, despite Bye’s protests, hit the Timbers’ fullback’s arm.—
Ryan Finley,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
26 Apr. 2026
-
In past years, that has created openings for disruptions in the lobby and other public spaces, including protests in which security moved to remove guests who unfurled banners or staged demonstrations.—
Bridget Byrne,
Baltimore Sun,
26 Apr. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Niggles.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/niggles. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
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