PEDANTRY Meaning and
Definition
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Pedantry is a noun used to describe an excessive concern for details, rules, or accuracy, often accompanied by an arrogant attitude. It refers to the act or behavior of someone who is overly focused on minor or trivial aspects of knowledge, language, or learning, putting great emphasis on small technicalities rather than substance or practicality. Pedantry is often associated with an excessive display or insistence on one's own knowledge, leading to a tendency to correct others or flaunt one's intellectual superiority.
A person exhibiting pedantry may frequently interrupt conversations or lectures to interject unnecessary corrections, often to show off their own expertise or to display that they are well-versed in a particular subject. This behavior can be seen as irritating or tedious to others, as the focus is primarily placed on precision rather than effective communication or sharing of ideas. In academic or intellectual settings, pedantry can hinder productive discussions or debates, as it becomes difficult to convey ideas when one is constantly getting caught up on minor details.
Overall, pedantry can be detrimental to effective communication and collaboration, as the insistence on minute accuracy often frustrates and alienates others. It is important to strike a balance between accuracy and practicality, understanding that the goal of any exchange is typically to convey meaning rather than to display one's own knowledge or accuracy.
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A vain and offensive display of knowledge.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PEDANTRY
Etymology of PEDANTRY
The word "pedantry" is derived from the Latin term "pedantia". The Latin word "pedantia" refers to excessive concern for academic or formal details, strict adherence to rules, and an exaggerated display of knowledge. It originally comes from the Latin word "paedagogus", meaning "teacher" or "instructor", which was also influenced by the Greek word "paidagōgos", meaning "slave who accompanies a child to school" or "teacher". The term "pedantry" evolved in English through Middle French and Middle English, retaining its core meaning of excessive concern for formalities and minute details, often associated with a display of knowledge.
Similar spelling words for PEDANTRY
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