Nicety

/ˈnaɪsɪti/ · noun

Meaning

A small detail or distinction..

Definitions by Sense

1. A small detail or distinction.
2. Subtlety or precision of use; exactness; preciseness.
3. A delicacy of character or feeling usually from excessive refinement; fastidiousness.
4. Synonym of social nicety.
5. (obsolete) That which is delicate to the taste.
6. Behaving in an unpleasant or spiteful way that is seemingly, or perceived as, pleasant or agreeable.

Example Sentences

We met the new captain while we were taking enemy fire and were unable to observe the niceties of formal introductions.

the fineness and niceties of words

"But," the writer, Dr. Beattie, adds, "this is a needless nicety, and, if adopted, would introduce a confusion into the grammatical art. {...}"

It’s just that when I’ve been stripped of my possessions, my dignity and any semblance of personal space and then strapped in for a multihour spell in the world’s most cramped and crappy bar car, the little niceties go a long way toward keeping me – keeping everyone – sane.

A rocket-propelled grenade doesn't have the nicety of a sniper round, but you must admit its effectiveness.

Afterwards I took it back when it was borne in upon me startlingly with what extreme nicety he had estimated the time requisite for the ‘affair.’

[W]e cannot judge with exact nicety whether the hunter or the hunted has the greater dash of toe.

[I]f you knew how Selina feels with respect to sleeping at an inn, you would not wonder at Mrs. Churchill’s making incredible exertions to avoid it. Selina says it is quite horror to her—and I believe I have caught a little of her nicety.

Synonyms for nicety

Antonyms for nicety

Related Words

Word Forms

• niceties

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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