What is trifling? Pronunciation and usage in English

trifling means . Learn how to pronounce and use trifling through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of trifling

triflingadjective

/ˈtraɪflɪŋ//ˈtraɪflɪŋ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "trifling." It can be tricky! Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ˈtrɪf.lɪŋ/

2. Breakdown & Explanation:

  • ˈtrɪf: This is the most challenging part. It sounds like "triff" – almost like "trif" followed by a very quick, light "f." The emphasis is on this syllable.

    • "tr": Pronounced as a single sound, similar to "try" but shorter.
    • "i": A short "i" sound, like in "bit."
    • "f": A very quick, almost unstressed "f" sound. Don't overemphasize it.

  • lɪŋ: This is much easier.

    • "l": Like the "l" in "lamp."
    • "ɪ": A short, “i” sound, like in “ship.”
    • "ŋ": This is the "ng" sound, like in "sing." It’s a nasal sound – you feel the vibration in your nose.

3. Putting it Together – The Sound:

Imagine saying “triff-ling.” Keep “triff” relatively short and light, and then smoothly blend it into “ling.”

4. Tips for Practice:

  • Slow it down: Start by saying each syllable separately ("triff," "ling") to get the sounds right.
  • Listen to examples: The BEST way to learn is to hear it. Here are a few options:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce trifiling" on YouTube. You'll find many audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/trifling/ – Forvo is a website where native speakers record pronunciations.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Overemphasizing the "tr": Don’t make it sound like “tree-fiff.”
  • Making "ling" sound too long: Keep it connected smoothly to “triff.”

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What accent are you trying to emulate? (e.g., American, British, Australian?)
  • Are there any specific sounds you find particularly difficult?

Usage and examples with the word trifling in English

Let's break down how to use the word "trifling" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances. Here's a breakdown of its meanings and how to use it effectively:

1. As an Adjective (Most Common Usage): Meaning "Small or Insignificant"

This is the most frequent way "trifling" is used. It describes something as being so small or unimportant that it's barely worth considering.

  • Examples:
    • "The amount of money involved was trifling – less than a dollar." (Meaning the amount is insignificant.)
    • "Don't worry about his criticisms; they're trifling and don't reflect his true feelings." (Meaning the criticisms are unimportant.)
    • "The differences between the two plans are trifling; they essentially offer the same thing." (Meaning the differences are minor and not significant.)
    • “He’s concerned with trifling details while ignoring the bigger picture.” (Meaning he focuses on unimportant details.)

2. As an Adjective (Less Common): Meaning "Light or Frivolous" – Often Used with Entertainment or Humor

In this sense, "trifling" suggests something is not serious, silly, or lacking depth. It's often used to describe entertainment, stories, or jokes.

  • Examples:
    • "The novel was a trifling romance – a predictable and shallow love story." (Meaning it lacks depth or substance.)
    • "It’s just a trifling problem; don't make a fuss about it." (Meaning it's a minor, unimportant annoyance.)
    • “He engaged in trifling pursuits like collecting stamps and miniature figurines.” (meaning the pursuits were not serious or important)

3. As a Noun (Rare): Meaning "A Small or Insignificant Matter"

This usage is less common and generally more formal. It refers to something trivial or unimportant.

  • Example:
    • “The dispute over the parking space was a trifling matter and was quickly resolved.” (Meaning the dispute was minor and didn't matter much.)

Key Considerations & Tips:

  • Tone: “Trifling” often has a slightly negative connotation, implying that something shouldn't be given much attention because it’s unimportant. However, its usage can be more neutral depending on the context.

  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms to vary your vocabulary:

    • Small: minor, slight, little, minimal
    • Insignificant: unimportant, trivial, unimportant, inconsequential
    • Frivolous: silly, lighthearted, playful, superficial

  • Avoid Overuse: "Trifling" can sound a bit stuffy or overly formal. Use it deliberately when you genuinely want to emphasize the insignificance of something.

How to Choose the Right Meaning:

  1. Context is Key: Pay close attention to the sentence and the surrounding text to understand what's being described.
  2. Consider the Tone: Does the writer want to convey a serious or dismissive attitude?

Example Exercise:

Fill in the blanks with "trifling" or a suitable synonym:

  1. The delay was merely a _________ inconvenience.
  2. His worries about the presentation were _________ and easily dismissed.
  3. The amount of effort required to learn the instrument was surprisingly _________.
  4. The politician’s claims were based on _________ details and misrepresentations.

Answers to the exercise:

  1. trifling
  2. trifling
  3. trifling
  4. trifling

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Explain how "trifling" is used in a specific sentence?
  • Help you practice using the word in different contexts?

Synonyms for the word trifling

Practice with vocabulary trifling

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Despite the meticulous planning, a few _______ details were overlooked, though they had no significant impact on the project's outcome.
  2. The company aims for sustained growth, ensuring that its progress remains _______ quarter after quarter.
  3. During the negotiation, both parties spent an excessive amount of time debating a _______ issue, delaying the more critical discussions.
  4. His recent discovery offers a truly _______ perspective on human behavior, challenging long-held assumptions.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following describes a trifling expense? a) A significant investment in new technology. b) A minor cost that doesn't affect the budget. c) An essential expenditure for operational continuity. d) An insignificant sum spent on office supplies. e) A substantial outlay for property acquisition.

  2. The team decided to defer discussion on the _______ point, prioritizing items with greater strategic importance. a) substantial b) momentous c) inconsequential d) trifling e) pivotal

  3. Which actions demonstrate meticulousness in a professional context? a) Overlooking minor errors to speed up the process. b) Double-checking all data entries before submission. c) Prioritizing the overall concept over small details. d) Carefully reviewing every clause in a contract. e) Rushing through a report to meet a tight deadline.

  4. Which situations would likely be considered trifling by a busy executive? a) A major client threatening to withdraw a contract. b) A minor administrative error on a non-critical document. c) A significant drop in quarterly profits. d) A slight delay in an internal meeting's start time. e) A typo in a draft email that hasn't been sent.

  5. Which words are near-synonyms for crucial? a) peripheral b) vital c) essential d) trivial e) marginal

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. His contributions to the brainstorming session were so small that they made little difference to the final proposal.
    • Rewrite the sentence, using "trifling".
  2. It is incredibly important for new employees to understand the company's core values from day one.
    • Rewrite the sentence, replacing "incredibly important" with a single, suitable alternative word.
  3. Please do not waste valuable time discussing such an unimportant detail when we have pressing deadlines.
    • Rewrite the sentence, using "trifling".

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Despite the meticulous planning, a few trifling details were overlooked, though they had no significant impact on the project's outcome.
  2. The company aims for sustained growth, ensuring that its progress remains consistent quarter after quarter.
  3. During the negotiation, both parties spent an excessive amount of time debating a trifling issue, delaying the more critical discussions.
  4. His recent discovery offers a truly profound perspective on human behavior, challenging long-held assumptions.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) A minor cost that doesn't affect the budget. d) An insignificant sum spent on office supplies.
  2. c) inconsequential d) trifling
  3. b) Double-checking all data entries before submission. d) Carefully reviewing every clause in a contract.
  4. b) A minor administrative error on a non-critical document. d) A slight delay in an internal meeting's start time. e) A typo in a draft email that hasn't been sent.
  5. b) vital c) essential

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. His contributions to the brainstorming session were trifling, making little difference to the final proposal.
  2. It is crucial for new employees to understand the company's core values from day one.
  3. Please do not waste valuable time discussing such a trifling detail when we have pressing deadlines.

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