trifling

Trifling is an adjective meaning of little value or importance; trivial; minor in scope or amount. It describes matters, concerns, injuries, or sums that are considered not significant. The term often implies a judgment that something is not worthy of serious attention.

The noun form trifle refers to a thing of small value, while the verb to trifle means to treat something as unimportant or to waste time. Trifling behavior is typically associated with frivolity or a lack of seriousness. The word derives from the concept of a small thing or amount; in English it has been used since the Middle Ages to denote things that deserve little consideration.

Usage notes: In formal or precise writing, trifling is used to characterize matters as not deserving of significant effort or concern, as in trifling matters or a trifling delay. It can describe small sums, such as a trifling amount, or a minor injury or discrepancy. The expression trifling with warns against treating something (such as health, safety, or trust) in a careless or disrespectful way.

Related terms include trivial, negligible, and incidental. In everyday language, trifling can carry a pejorative tone if used to dismiss another’s concerns; care is advised to avoid discourtesy and preserve nuance in tone.