Translation guide
The English word "trifle" has two main uses: as a noun meaning something of little value or importance, and as a verb meaning to treat something without seriousness. This guide covers both, with natural Japanese equivalents.
To refer to something trivial, insignificant, or of little consequence.
The most common and neutral way to say "a trifle" or "a trivial matter."
そんな些細なことで怒らないでください。
Please don't get angry over such a trifle.
Literally "a boring thing," often used humbly when giving a gift, meaning "just a little something."
つまらないものですが、どうぞ。
This is just a trifle, but please accept it.
A formal or literary term for a trifle or minor matter.
彼は小事にこだわらない。
He doesn't worry about trifles.
To act as if something is not important, or to toy with someone or something.
Literally "to treat lightly," this is a natural way to say "to trifle with" something.
彼はその問題を軽く扱った。
He trifled with the problem.
Means "to toy with" or "to trifle with," often used for emotions or people.
Can imply a more malicious or careless attitude than 軽く扱う.
彼女の気持ちをもてあそんではいけない。
You mustn't trifle with her feelings.
Means to treat something in a half-hearted or careless way.
仕事をいい加減に扱うな。
Don't trifle with your work.
To indicate a slight degree or a little bit, as in "a trifle too much."
Use 少し (polite/neutral) or ちょっと (casual) before an adjective or adverb to mean "a trifle."
このスープは少し塩辛い。
This soup is a trifle too salty.
ちょっと待ってください。
Wait just a trifle, please.
A slightly formal adverb meaning "a little" or "somewhat."
今日はやや寒い。
It's a trifle cold today.
In English, 'trifle' can also refer to a layered dessert. In Japanese, this is usually called トライフル (torifuru), a loanword. This guide does not cover that meaning, as it is a specific food item.