pedantyczna

Pedantyczna is the feminine singular form of the Polish adjective pedantyczny. It describes a person, behavior, or approach characterized by an excessive focus on formal rules, accuracy, and minor details, often at the expense of practicality or broader goals. In usage the term carries a negative or critical connotation, though it can be used descriptively or even humorously in informal speech.

Etymology: The word is borrowed from French pédant or Latin pedantem, via Polish pedantyczny. It originally referred to a pedant, a schoolmaster or someone who ostentatiously emphasizes learning, and it acquired its pejorative nuance over time.

Usage and nuance: Pedantyczna can describe a woman who insists on perfect precision in work, documentation, or presentation, e.g., pedantyczna dokumentacja. It is common in professional or academic contexts to criticize excessive meticulousness, but some contexts may tolerate or even praise high standards. In neutral or literary contexts the term may be used more lightly or humorously.

Related forms: pedantyczny (masc.), pedantyczne (neut.), pedanteria or pedantyzm (pedantry), adverb pedantycznie. Synonyms include skrupulatny, drobiazgowy, dokładny; antonyms include niedbały, niechlujny, lekceważący.

Example: Ona jest pedantyczna w pracy nad raportem.