Translation guide
The English word "insignificant" describes something too small, unimportant, or trivial to matter. In Japanese, the best translation depends on whether you are talking about a negligible amount, a person's status, a minor detail, or something emotionally trivial.
Describing a quantity, difference, or impact that is so small it can be ignored.
Literally 'not worth taking up.' A common, natural phrase for something trivial or negligible.
その差は取るに足らない。
The difference is insignificant.
Means 'trivial' or 'minor.' Often used for small problems, details, or amounts.
些細な問題だ。
It's an insignificant problem.
Emphasizes a very small amount, often used with money or numbers. Slightly formal.
微々たる金額だ。
It's an insignificant amount of money.
Means 'can be ignored.' Used when something is so small it doesn't affect the outcome.
誤差は無視できる範囲だ。
The error is within an insignificant range.
Describing a person, role, or thing that lacks power, importance, or prominence.
The direct negation of 'important.' Simple and clear.
彼は重要でない役割を担っている。
He plays an insignificant role.
Casual phrase meaning 'not a big deal.' Often used for people or events.
あの人は大したことないよ。
That person is insignificant.
Means 'unknown' or 'obscure.' Used for people or things lacking fame.
彼は無名の作家だ。
He is an insignificant writer.
Formal term meaning 'minor' or 'slight.' Often used in legal or official contexts.
軽微な違反と見なされた。
It was considered an insignificant violation.
Describing a matter that is not worth emotional investment or concern.
Means 'it doesn't matter' or 'I don't care.' Very common in casual speech.
そんなのどうでもいいよ。
That's insignificant.
Literally 'it's not something worth worrying about.' A polite, reassuring phrase.
それは気にするほどのことではない。
That's insignificant.
Direct translations like 「無意味な」 (meaningless) or 「重要じゃない」 can sound unnatural or too strong. Choose the phrase that matches the nuance: negligible, unimportant, or trivial.