How to nitpick without making people suffer: a guide

How to nitpick without making people suffer: a guide

For when they used vague language instead of precise language. 

Replace “actually, it’s ____” with 

• “For people who want more precision, it’s _____” 
• “Interestingly, in the scientific field, we use the more specific term ______” 
• “Fun fact: there’s actually different words for that concept that mean different things, such as _____”
• “Interesting metaphor. Do you think it still applies in situation ______? I wonder what metaphor might cover that situation as well. Maybe ____?”

The general principle guiding this:

1. Don’t say they’re wrong. Say there are more precise ways to say it.
2. Build on what they said, don’t destroy. “Yes and” instead of “No but”.
3. Talk to the audience that wants more precision. Not everybody wants more precision. 

Replace “that’s wrong” or “that’s overly simplistic” with:

• “That’s an interesting introduction. For people who want a more detailed and nuanced take, I recommend checking out _____” 
• “Makes sense. I’d like to add some nuance that ______”
• “Generally agree with OP. More nuance for those who want a fuller picture: ______”

Or, you know, just don’t nitpick. 

Remember that context matters and in most places providing minor corrections is perceived as annoying and not helpful. 

If somebody got something small wrong, consider just moving on