nitpick

[nit-pik] /ˈnɪtˌpɪk/

verb (used without object)

to be excessively concerned with or critical of inconsequential details.

verb (used with object)

to criticize by focusing on inconsequential details.

noun

a carping, petty criticism.

adjective

of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a nitpicker or nitpicking.

Also, nit-pick.

Origin

1965-70; nit¹ + pick¹

Examples from the web for nitpick

And the researchers found plenty to nitpick themselves.
Such disputes dispirit those who want the church to look outward and upward, not nitpick over the past.
Yes, the taillight treatment is a bit garish, but that's a nitpick.
We can nitpick the fine points and do on almost every single post.
See, you can nitpick these things forever if you're so inclined.
So if you are going to nitpick every change made to the game, start there.
Not to nitpick, but there is no suction until the pulling begins.
Not to nitpick, but it is important to use accurate terminology.
Not to nitpick, but he looks humiliated and stylish.
nitpick: something the size of a ruler will not be picked up.

Word Origin and History for nitpick

"seek petty faults," also nit-pick, 1962, back-formation from earlier nitpicker. Related: Nitpicking; nitpicky.

Slang definitions & phrases for nitpick

verb

To quibble over trivia; niggle: so all that remains is for them to sit and lie there and nitpick over trivialities or talk about what's on TV