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.
We argued over something petty.
That's a petty issue.
Literally 'not worth taking up'. Emphasizes insignificance. Slightly more formal or emphatic.
His opinion is petty.
Colloquial, meaning 'tiny' or 'insignificant'. Often used for small amounts or things.
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.
He's petty, so he holds grudges easily.
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.
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.
Referring to a small fund kept for minor, incidental expenses.
The standard accounting term for 'petty cash'.
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.
He is petty and can't forgive his subordinates' mistakes.
彼は細かい男だ。
He's a petty guy.