Translation guide
Describes something small, unimportant, or of little value. Japanese uses different words depending on whether you mean a small amount, a minor issue, or something trivial.
To say that something is not important or not worth worrying about.
The most common and neutral way to say 'trifling' or 'trivial'. Used for matters, details, mistakes, etc.
些細なことで喧嘩した。
We argued over a trifling matter.
You worry too much about trifling mistakes.
Literally 'not worth taking up'. Emphasizes that something is so insignificant it's not worth considering. Slightly more emphatic than 些細な.
彼の意見は取るに足らないものだ。
His opinion is trifling.
Very casual, meaning 'it doesn't matter' or 'whatever'. Used for things you don't care about. Can sound dismissive.
そんなのどうでもいいよ。
That's trifling. / I don't care about that.
A formal, literary word for 'trivial' or 'minor'. Often used in written contexts.
瑣末な問題に時間を費やすな。
Don't waste time on trifling problems.
To describe a very small amount of money or something of little value.
Means 'a trifling amount', 'a small sum'. Neutral and common.
僅かなお金しか持っていない。
I have only a trifling amount of money.
僅かな違いだ。
It's a trifling difference.
Emphasizes a very small, insignificant amount, often used with money or numbers. Slightly formal.
微々たる額だが、ありがたい。
It's a trifling sum, but I'm grateful.
A somewhat old-fashioned or dismissive term for a trifling amount of money, 'chump change'.
To describe someone or something as lacking seriousness, being silly or shallow.
Means 'frivolous', 'shallow', or 'flippant'. Used for people, attitudes, or remarks.
彼は軽薄な人間だ。
He is a trifling person.
軽薄な発言は控えてください。
Please refrain from trifling remarks.
Casual word for 'silly', 'stupid', or 'trivial'. Often used for jokes, ideas, or things considered a waste of time.
Describes a light, frivolous, or flirtatious mood or behavior. Often used for romantic contexts.
浮ついた気持ちで付き合うな。
Don't get involved with trifling feelings.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'trifling'. Choose based on whether you mean unimportant, small in amount, or frivolous. Using the wrong one can sound unnatural.
些細な額
trifling amount (unnatural; use 僅かな額 instead)
そんなのははした金だ。
That's just trifling money.
くだらない話はやめよう。
Let's stop this trifling talk.