also: けちつける
expression, ichidan verb
find fault; complain about; pick holes in
Used when someone criticizes or points out flaws in something, often in a petty or nitpicking way. The object is marked with に.
See also: ケチを付ける
彼はいつも人の仕事にケチを付ける。
He always finds fault with other people's work.
I wish you wouldn't pick holes in my carefully thought-out proposal.
expression, ichidan verb
jinx; put a damper on; throw cold water on
Used when someone says something negative that spoils a good mood, brings bad luck, or ruins a positive situation. Often in the form ケチを付ける.
See also: ケチを付ける
彼の一言が楽しい雰囲気にケチを付けた。
His one remark put a damper on the cheerful atmosphere.
縁起の悪いことを言ってケチを付けないで。
Don't jinx it by saying something unlucky.