Understanding the quibble plot device

What is a quibble?

A quibble is a plot device where a character takes a verbal condition very literally instead of its assumed intent. They are used to enhance storytelling techniques in fantasy or magical narratives, but they can also be found in other story types like dramas, comedies, mysteries, and more. Quibbles often create unexpected dark plot twists or resolutions to sticky situations, depending on the context.

How does a quibble work?

To explain how a quibble works, let’s create a scenario that involves two characters in a conflict. Character A is preparing to fight character B, despite being told not to “lay a hand” on his opponent. The phrase “not lay a hand on” is an idiom that implies that character A is forbidden from physically hurting character B. However, character A instead goes up to character B and kicks them with his foot, then claims that he technically didn’t “lay a hand” on him. Character A justifies his action by taking the phrase literally, despite knowing what the phrase actually means.

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More examples of quibbles in popular media

Some of the most iconic scenes in books, movies, and TV shows are quibbles. Here are some examples from popular media that you might recognize:

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, it’s known that a house elf can become free if their master presents them with clothes. Dobby, a house elf who serves the Malfoy family, is freed by his master when Harry Potter tricks Lucius Malfoy by hiding a sock in the diary he gives him. When Lucius tosses the diary to Dobby and commands him to carry it, he unintentionally presents him with an article of clothing.

The Merchant of Venice

In William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, Portia uses a quibble to outsmart Shylock, who insists on his legal right to claim a pound of flesh but cannot spill any blood in the process. Portia takes advantage of this technicality and argues that if Shylock insists on his bond without shedding blood, he would only be entitled to exactly one pound of flesh. If he sheds even a drop of blood, he would be in violation of the bond.

Spongebob Squarepants

In the animated children’s show Spongebob Squarepants, a character named Beuford BargainBottom owns a convenience store and is seen checking out another customer’s purchases. The customer is buying a bag of chips that claims to have “three times the flavor”, and Beuford scans the item three times. When the customer complains, Beuford points to the label on the bag and argues that since the product is three times the flavor, it must also be three times the price.

Find more ways to enhance your creative writing skills

The quibble plot device is one of many useful techniques for making a story more interesting. It plays a key role in adding twists and layers for audiences to further unpack as they read or watch. Whether used for comedic effect, dramatic tension, or to showcase a character’s intelligence, quibbles serve as strong tools that contribute to the overall depth and unpredictability of a storyline.

By practicing your creative writing skills and learning to include other plot or literary devices, you can make a story that’s fun and engaging to read as well. Browse our writing tips, find book ideas, and learn how to brainstorm creative writing ideas.