What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cavillation
Example
He is always cavilling about the smallest details, never satisfied with anything. [cavilling: present participle]
Example
Her constant cavillation about my work is starting to get on my nerves. [cavillation: noun]
carping
Example
Stop carping about every little thing and try to see the positive side. [carping: verb]
Example
His carping comments about my appearance are really starting to affect my self-esteem. [carping: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Carping is more commonly used than cavillation in everyday language. Carping is versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while cavillation is less common and has a more specific connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cavillation and carping?
While cavillation has a slightly more formal tone, carping can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Carping is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both casual and formal situations.