# nitty

/ˈnɪti/ (US) · /nˈɪti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nitty
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

the small, boring, or difficult parts of a task. You use this when you want to say you are ready to deal with the tiny details of a job.

For teachers: the minute, tedious, or difficult details of a task or situation. Almost exclusively used in the fixed phrase 'nitty-gritty' to describe the essential but unexciting aspects of a process.

## Examples

- I am ready to get into the nitty-gritty of the project.
- After the initial presentation, the team spent the afternoon discussing the nitty-gritty of the contract terms.
- While the public was captivated by the grand vision, the engineers were busy navigating the nitty-gritty of structural compliance and safety regulations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.