a trivial problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a trivial problem" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an issue that is considered insignificant or easy to solve. Example: "Although it seemed daunting at first, we realized it was just a trivial problem that could be fixed quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A trivial problem reveals the limits of technology.

The New Yorker

"This is not a trivial problem," he said.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, Landis says, this is not a trivial problem.

MIT Technology Review

There's a trivial problem for Labour, and a serious one.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Early and accurate diagnosis is not a trivial problem.

The New Yorker

NO ONE calls upon James Baker, an American elder statesman, to solve a trivial problem.

The Economist

The lesson from our expedition is not that global warming is a trivial problem.

The New York Times - Science

I don't think that is a trivial problem, but industries do this sort of thing all the time.

The New Yorker

If symptoms persist, you should take your child to the GP for advice – hay fever is not a trivial problem.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Instead, the only risk the consent form mentioned was skin irritation from the oximeter device, a trivial problem.

The Washington Post

Sticky toes are a trivial problem compared with the damage done since the Prestige sank on Nov. 19.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a trivial problem", ensure the context clearly supports the assessment of the problem as minor or easily resolvable. Overusing the phrase may diminish the perceived importance of genuine issues.

Common error

Avoid using "a trivial problem" to describe issues that have significant underlying causes or potential for escalation. Accurately assess the scope and impact before dismissing a problem as trivial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a trivial problem" functions as a noun phrase, where "trivial" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "problem". According to Ludwig, this phrase is often used to describe issues that are considered insignificant or easily solvable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a trivial problem" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe minor or easily solvable issues. According to Ludwig, it is widely used across different fields such as News & Media, Science and Academia. It is often used to downplay significance or reassure. When using this phrase, ensure that the context supports the trivial nature of the problem to avoid misinterpretations. Remember that accurately assessing the scope of a problem is important. Considering that, Ludwig AI confirms the expression is correct and usable in a written context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor issue

Focuses on the insignificance of the problem.

a simple matter

Highlights the easiness of dealing with the problem.

an insignificant difficulty

Emphasizes the lack of importance of the difficulty.

a negligible concern

Stresses that the problem is not worth worrying about.

a slight complication

Implies the problem is only a small hindrance.

a small hiccup

Suggests the problem is temporary and easily overcome.

a petty dilemma

Indicates the problem is unimportant and easily resolved.

a facile challenge

Highlights the easiness of the challenge.

a manageable obstacle

Stresses that the problem is easy to handle.

an elementary snag

Suggests that the problem is basic and easy to fix.

FAQs

How can I use "a trivial problem" in a sentence?

You can use "a trivial problem" to describe an issue that is easily solved or of little importance. For example, "Fixing the typo was "a trivial problem" compared to the overall system failure".

What's a good alternative to "a trivial problem"?

Alternatives include "a minor issue", "a simple matter", or "an insignificant difficulty" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to describe something as "a trivial problem"?

It's appropriate when the issue is genuinely minor and easily resolved, without significant consequences. Be careful not to downplay legitimate concerns.

Is "a trivial problem" the same as "a minimal problem"?

While similar, "a trivial problem" suggests the issue is not only small but also easy to handle, whereas "a minimal problem" simply implies it is small in scope.