Translation guide
How to express that something is small, unimportant, or trivial in Japanese, depending on context and nuance.
Describing something as a minor issue, not worth worrying about.
A common and natural way to say 'a trivial matter' or 'something insignificant'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
Referring to a physically small item that may be considered insignificant.
A straightforward way to say 'a small thing'. Neutral and widely used.
Expressing that something has no impact or importance.
A very common casual phrase meaning 'something that doesn't matter' or 'a trivial thing'. Often used when dismissing a topic.
Directly translating 'insignificant thing' as 無意味なもの (mumei na mono) or 重要でないもの (jūyō denai mono) sounds unnatural. Use the phrases above instead.
Please don't worry about such a trivial thing.
Literally 'a thing not worth taking up'. Emphasizes that something is negligible or worthless. Slightly more formal or literary.
That's an insignificant thing.
A somewhat formal or literary term for 'trifle' or 'minor matter'. Not common in everyday speech.
He doesn't fuss over insignificant things.
There's a small thing on the desk.
Emphasizes that something is tiny or puny, often with a nuance of insignificance. Casual.
Don't worry about such a tiny thing.
That's just an insignificant thing.
Means 'it's not a big deal' or 'it's nothing important'. Polite enough for most situations.
It's an insignificant thing, so don't worry.