Trifle with Meaning in English
expression
ˈtɹaɪfəɫ/ /ˈwɪð/, /ˈwɪθ/, /wɪð/, /wɪθ
TRY-fuhl with
tɹˈaɪfəl/ /wˈɪð
try-FUHL with
Definition
To treat someone or something as unimportant, or to behave carelessly or not seriously with something that deserves respect.
Usage & Nuances
Often used in formal or literary contexts; usually refers to serious matters like emotions, relationships, or responsibilities. Common collocation: 'Don't trifle with...' to warn against disrespect or carelessness. Avoid using for trivial or humorous situations.
Spanish: jugar con - tomar a la ligeraPortuguese (BR): brincar com - tratar levianamentePortuguese (PT): brincar com - tratar levianamenteChinese (Simplified): 轻视 - 玩弄Chinese (Traditional): 輕視 - 玩弄Hindi: हल्के में लेना - खिलवाड़ करनाArabic: يستهين بـ - يستخف بـBengali: তুচ্ছ ভাবা - খেলোভাব করাRussian: шутить с - относиться легкомысленно кJapanese: 軽んじる - もてあそぶVietnamese: xem nhẹ - đùa cợt vớiKorean: 가볍게 여기다 - 가지고 장난하다Turkish: hafife almak - küçümsemekUrdu: ہلکا لینا - کھیل سمجھناIndonesian: menganggap enteng - mempermainkan
Example Sentences
You should not trifle with people's feelings.
basic
Don't trifle with fire, it's dangerous.
basic
You must never trifle with your health.
basic
He likes to trifle with rules just to see what he can get away with.
natural
I wouldn’t trifle with her patience if I were you.
natural
Life is not something you can trifle with and expect no consequences.
natural