CAVIL

Listen, if you're going to use a word like "cavil" in a sentence don't mash it up with clunky common language. At least insert "punctuality" for "lateness" and "acceded" for "gave in" and "squared her account" for "paid the bill".

CAVIL

(KAV-ihl), verb

To find fault in trivial matters or raise petty objections. As a noun, cavil can mean a trivial objection.

Susan cavilled for some time about the lateness of the milk delivery, but since it was only a matter of minutes, she eventually gave in and paid the bill.



from The Words You Should Know by David Olsen