HAIRSPLITTING Synonyms: 57 Similar and Opposite Words

hairsplitting

adjective

Definition of hairsplitting

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

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hairsplitting

Adjective

In Lepecki’s account, the gesture again demonstrated that stillness in dance always vibrates with subtle motion.

— Sophie Landres, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2026
Against a backdrop of wilting flowers that left a subtle funk in the air, designer Glenn Martens once again put forth ideas that challenged conventions of beautiful clothing.

— Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of subtle

Adjective

No detail is unaccounted for and no expense is spared, which is The Ritz-Carlton way — evident in touches like the robe’s delicate trim on the pockets and cuffs, fleece lining, embroidery at the chest, and belt made out of the same materials.

— Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026
Ilinčić’s show borrowed the delicate ropes of octogenarian textile artist Françoise Grossen weaving them into dresses, skirts, bags and belts.

— Hikmat Mohammed, ARTnews.com, 24 Sep. 2026

Definition of delicate

Adjective

Lawrence, 36, recently stepped out in these exact mules, and they’re nearly sold out.

— Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 30 Sep. 2026
The exact title and scope of Kreiz’s role is not finalized, a person familiar with the talks tells Deadline, and a number of scenarios are in play.

— Dominic Patten, Deadline, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of exact

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Browse Nearby Words

hairsplitters

hairsplitting

hairstyle

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“Hairsplitting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hairsplitting. Accessed 1 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of hairsplitting

adjective

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