1. the essential nature or inherent qualities of something
Usage: formal; philosophical
2. trivial distinctions or subtle points, especially in argument
Usage: formal

Examples

• The philosopher spent years studying the quiddities of human consciousness.
• Legal scholars debated the quiddities of constitutional interpretation.
• She grew tired of his endless quiddities during their discussions.
• The professor’s lecture focused on the quiddities that distinguish one theory from another.
• Rather than getting lost in quiddities, they decided to focus on practical solutions.
• The quiddities of medieval thought fascinated the graduate students.