# pedantic

/pəˈdæntɪk/ (US) · /pɛdˈɑːntɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pedantic
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

too focused on small details and strict rules, in a way that annoys other people. You use it for someone who corrects every tiny mistake and misses the bigger point.

For teachers: excessively concerned with minor details, rules, or formal correctness, often at the expense of broader meaning. Often used to criticize a person, tone, or piece of writing that values precision over clarity.

## Examples

- He gives pedantic answers to every simple question.
- My manager leaves pedantic comments on every report, fixing commas while ignoring the main ideas.
- Her review was pedantic in the worst sense, cataloguing minor errors while missing the bold argument that made the book worth reading.

## Synonyms

fussy, picky, nitpicking

## Usage notes

- Typically describes people, comments, or attitudes; used both before nouns ('a pedantic note') and after linking verbs ('the review was pedantic').

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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.