Translation guide
The English word 'petty' has several distinct meanings. It can describe something of minor importance, a person who is overly concerned with trivial matters, or a small-scale action or crime. This guide breaks down these meanings and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
Describing something that is not important or serious, such as a small problem, detail, or amount of money.
The most common and versatile adjective for 'trivial' or 'minor'. Used for problems, details, differences, etc.
些細なことで喧嘩した。
We argued over something petty.
That's a petty issue.
Literally 'not worth taking up'. Emphasizes insignificance. Slightly more formal or emphatic.
彼の意見は取るに足らない。
His opinion is petty.
Colloquial, meaning 'tiny' or 'insignificant'. Often used for small amounts or things.
ちっぽけなことで悩むな。
Don't worry about petty things.
Describing a person or behavior that is spiteful, mean, or focused on minor slights, often in a vindictive way.
Literally 'narrow-hearted'. The most natural way to describe a petty person who is intolerant or small-minded.
彼は心が狭いから、すぐに根に持つ。
He's petty, so he holds grudges easily.
そんな心の狭いことは言わないで。
Don't say such petty things.
Slang for 'petty', 'stingy', or 'small-minded'. Often used for cheap or mean-spirited actions.
Literally 'small capacity'. Refers to a lack of magnanimity or generosity of spirit. More formal.
彼は度量が小さくて、部下の失敗を許せない。
He is petty and can't forgive his subordinates' mistakes.
Can mean 'petty' when describing a person who is nitpicky or overly concerned with details. Context-dependent.
Referring to crimes or wrongdoings that are not serious, such as petty theft or petty vandalism.
Standard term for 'minor' or 'petty' in legal or formal contexts, especially for crimes.
彼は軽微な窃盗で逮捕された。
He was arrested for petty theft.
Means 'small-scale'. Can be used for petty crime, but less specific than 軽微な.
小規模な犯罪が増えている。
Petty crimes are increasing.
Referring to a small fund kept for minor, incidental expenses.
The standard accounting term for 'petty cash'.
小口現金から支払います。
I'll pay from petty cash.
Direct translations like ペティな人 do not work. Use 心が狭い or せこい depending on the nuance. 細かい can also work but may be misinterpreted as 'meticulous'.
Both mean 'trivial', but 些細な is more common and neutral. 取るに足らない is stronger and often dismissive, implying something is beneath consideration.
That revenge is petty.
彼は細かい男だ。
He's a petty guy.