Meaning of the word "strain at gnats and swallow camels" in English
What does "strain at gnats and swallow camels" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
strain at gnats and swallow camels
US /streɪn æt næts ænd ˈswɑːloʊ ˈkæməlz/
UK /streɪn æt næts ænd ˈswɒləʊ ˈkæməlz/
Idiom
to be extremely fastidious about small, insignificant details while ignoring much more serious or important matters
Example:
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The committee is straining at gnats and swallowing camels by arguing over the font size while the budget is in total chaos.
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Don't strain at gnats and swallow camels; focus on the major flaws in the plan instead of the typos.