minutia

UK: mɪˈnjuːʃə | US: mɪˈnuːʃə

Definition

  1. n. a small or minor detail, often considered trivial or insignificant

  2. n. (plural: minutiae) precise or trivial details collectively

Structure
minut <small>ia <noun suffix denoting collective or abstract concept>
Etymology

Derived from Latin minutia ("smallness, triviality"), which stems from minutus ("small"), the past participle of minuere ("to lessen, diminish"). The root minut- reflects the concept of fineness or triviality, while -ia forms abstract nouns. The word entered English in the 18th century, retaining its focus on insignificant details.

Examples

  1. The contract was delayed due to legal minutiae that required careful review.

  2. She obsessed over the minutiae of her artwork, perfecting every brushstroke.

  3. Historians often uncover truths by examining the minutiae of daily life in ancient texts.

  4. The report’s minutiae distracted from its broader conclusions.

  5. His lecture skipped the minutiae and focused on overarching themes.