To split hairs
Example: Let's not split hairs and just agree on the main point.
Definition
"To split hairs" means to argue or focus on very small, often irrelevant details instead of addressing the main point or issue. It is commonly used to describe unnecessary or overly precise distinctions in a discussion or argument, as in "Let's not split hairs and just agree on the main point."
Etymology
The phrase "to split hairs" originated in the 17th century and refers to the impossibility or absurdity of dividing something as fine and thin as a hair. It metaphorically suggests making excessively fine or trivial distinctions. Did you know that hair-splitting was once a literal challenge to divide a single hair, highlighting the phrase's meaning of needless precision?
Learn to use this expression actively
"To split hairs" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
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