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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Available in a style with the same stripes that Paltrow favors, the top offers a subtle pattern that’ll make your outfit pop.
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The square neckline adds a flattering, feminine touch, while the subtle volume in the sleeves gives it a slightly dressier feel than your average tee.
Adjective
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To accessorize her look, Chopra Jonas opted for delicate jewelry pieces that augmented the vibrant color scheme of her attire.
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Crappies, walleyes, and panfish are usually fried, and that’s partially because their thinner, more delicate fillets benefit from a batter coating holding them together during the cooking process.
Adjective
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And Beale is perfect as the politically savvy, fine-food-loving Ser Simon, joining in Season 2.
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Los Angeles will shell out $120,000 for outside lawyers to fight a lawsuit filed by Councilmember John Lee challenging an ethics fine.
Adjective
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Tellingly, the exterior of Flod’s home studio is Pinky’s exact shade of pink.
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The ingredient that keeps the time in check is actually the chicken—cutlets, to be exact.
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Cite this Entry
“Hairsplitting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hairsplitting. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.
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