pettiness

[ˈpɛti nəs]

pettiness Definition

the quality of being small-minded or ungenerous; showing an undue concern for trivial matters, especially in a small-minded or spiteful way.

Using pettiness: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pettiness" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I can't stand the pettiness of office politics.

• Example

  Her pettiness towards her ex-boyfriend was evident in her refusal to return his phone calls.

• Example

  The pettiness of their argument was frustrating to everyone around them.

pettiness Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for pettiness

• spitefulness
• vindictiveness
• meanness
• narrow-mindedness

Antonyms for pettiness

• generosity
• magnanimity

Phrases with pettiness

• petty cash

  a small amount of cash kept on hand for minor expenses

  Example

  I need to get some petty cash from the accounting department.

• petty crime

  a minor criminal offense, such as theft or vandalism

  Example

  The city has seen an increase in petty crime over the past few months.

• petty officer

  a non-commissioned officer in the navy or coast guard, ranking above a seaman and below a chief petty officer

  Example

  He was promoted to petty officer after serving for five years in the navy.

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Summary: pettiness in Brief

The term 'pettiness' [ˈpɛti nəs] refers to the quality of being small-minded or ungenerous, with an undue concern for trivial matters, often in a spiteful way. It is commonly seen in office politics and personal relationships, as in 'Her pettiness towards her ex-boyfriend was evident in her refusal to return his phone calls.' The term extends into phrases like 'petty cash,' denoting a small amount of cash kept on hand for minor expenses.