CAPTIOUS REMARK Meaning and
Definition
-
A captious remark refers to a critical or fault-finding comment made with the intent of finding flaws or faults, even in a trivial or insignificant matter. It is a form of criticism that is meticulously observant, focusing on minor details and inconsistencies in order to prove or emphasize the speaker's negative perspective. The term "captious" itself stems from the Latin word "captiosus," meaning "critical" or "fault-finding," further indicating the nature and purpose behind such remarks.
A captious remark often conveys a sense of cynicism or skepticism, wherein the speaker highlights perceived shortcomings or contradictions with the purpose of undermining or belittling the subject or the speaker's view. These comments are generally motivated by a desire to showcase one's own superiority or intellect, or to discredit the opinions or actions of others. Captious remarks can occur in various contexts, such as personal conversations, debates, assessments, or even reviews, where individuals use a harshly critical and nitpicky approach to express disapproval or dissatisfaction.
It is important to note that captious remarks typically lack constructive criticism, as they tend to dwell on minor or irrelevant flaws, rather than addressing more substantive issues. Thus, while a captious remark may provide a temporary sense of satisfaction or superiority to the speaker, it often fails to contribute positively to the dialogue or problem-solving process.
Common Misspellings for CAPTIOUS REMARK
- xaptious remark
- vaptious remark
- faptious remark
- daptious remark
- czptious remark
- csptious remark
- cwptious remark
- cqptious remark
- caotious remark
- caltious remark
- ca0tious remark
- caprious remark
- capfious remark
- capgious remark
- capyious remark
- cap6ious remark
- cap5ious remark
- captuous remark
- captjous remark
- captkous remark
Etymology of CAPTIOUS REMARK
The word "captious" comes from the Latin term "captiosus", which means "apt to catch or ensnare". It originated from the verb "capere", meaning "to take or seize". Over time, the meaning of "captious" in English developed to describe someone who is inclined to find fault, raise objections, or make critical and petty remarks. Hence, a "captious remark" refers to a fault-finding comment or a statement that is intended to trap or entrap someone into an argument or disadvantageous position.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
