1. past tense of cavil; to make petty or unnecessary objections; to quibble
Usage: transitive or intransitive; often followed by 'at' or 'about'

Examples

• She cavilled at every detail of the proposal, even though it was well-reasoned.
• The critics cavilled about the film's pacing rather than addressing its main themes.
• He cavilled at the contract terms, raising trivial concerns that delayed the deal.
• They cavilled over the budget, objecting to minor expenses.
• Instead of cavilling about small issues, we should focus on the bigger picture.
• The committee cavilled at the design, but ultimately approved it.