trivial - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
trivial Word Meanings
- of little value or importance
- not serious or significant
- commonplace or ordinary
trivial Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
trivial Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtrɪv.i.əl/
US
/ˈtrɪv.i.əl/
trivial Word Etymology
trivial = tri- (three) + via (way) → Latin 'trivium' (place where three roads meet) → Middle English 'trivial' (common, ordinary). Imagine three paths crossing, where everything is commonplace, like everyday conversations.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Trivial describes something of little value or importance, often used to say a matter is not worth serious discussion. It can also mean something plain or ordinary, not striking or remarkable, and so on. In everyday English you’ll hear phrases like a trivial detail, a trivial problem, or trivial matters that are easily solved. The word comes from Latin trivium via Middle English trivial, originally meaning common or ordinary, like three roads meeting; the sense shifted toward 'minor' or 'insignificant'. In formal writing, avoid overusing trivial; use it to downplay unimportant points, but never to belittle serious concerns. Remember that trivial emphasizes scale, not necessarily ease.
Usage Reminders
- Use with nouns like matter, detail, or problem to downplay importance. Pair with phrases like 'not a big deal' or 'of no consequence'. Avoid using trivial for important or serious issues. Consider alternatives like minor, insignificant, or inconsequential when the point is truly small. Remember it can describe both things and moments, not just tasks. In formal writing, reserve for points you want to deem unworthy of attention.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing trivial with easy or simple; not all trivial things are easy to do.
- Thinking trivial means tiny in size rather than unimportant.
- Overusing trivial in serious contexts to sound dismissive.
- Using trivial to describe people as dull or boring is not correct.
- Mistaking trivial for ‘typical’ or ‘normal’ in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often use trivial to downplay small details without insulting seriousness; learners should watch for collocations with matter, detail, and problem.
Learning Tips
- Notice common collocations: trivial matter, trivial detail, trivial problem.
- Contrast with important or critical to feel the intensity of meaning.
- Use in writing to downplay minor points, not to insult others.
- Pair with synonyms like minor, insignificant, inconsequential to vary tone.
- Practice with real-world examples to avoid overuse in formal contexts.
- Check tone: avoid sounding dismissive when addressing serious issues.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'trivial' used correctly?
A.He found the math problem trivial and spent hours trying to solve it.
B.She considered the issue trivial and didn't pay attention to it.
C.The trivial book became a bestseller due to its complex plot.
D.The teacher assigned a trivial project for the students to work on.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'trivial'?
A.Insignificant
B.Trivialize
C.Crucial
D.Frivolous
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would the word 'trivial' be used?
A.Describing a small and unimportant detail
B.Discussing a groundbreaking scientific discovery
C.Talking about a major historical event
D.Explaining a life-changing decision
Step 5: Mastery
Can you provide a sentence using the word 'trivial'?
A.I enjoy discussing trivial matters with my friends.
B.Sure, the meeting's agenda was full of trivial topics that wasted everyone's time.
C.The professor asked a trivial question that stumped the students.
D.It's important to pay attention to trivial details in any project.
Related Listening
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