Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As they goad each other, they act pettily and childishly but is also great fun to watch the superb actors go toe-to-toe.

From Salon • Nov. 10, 2024

"JS crystallised what it meant to be an Indian teen - and left that class floundering when it was unceremoniously, even pettily shut down after creating a never-before-genre of journalism," Ms Karkaria said.

From BBC • Dec. 27, 2023

The look Rosita gave Dwight when he – pettily, cruelly – emptied her water bottle.

From The Guardian • Nov. 14, 2016

He purported to be more high-minded than his peers but pettily mocked Michelle Obama for urging schoolchildren to eat leafy greens.

From New York Times • May 3, 2016

And as Beatrice recalled the world of other times, with all its false conventions, limitations and pettily stupid gallantries, she shuddered with repulsion.

From Darkness and Dawn by England, George Allan