a trivial topic

USAGE SUMMARY

"a trivial topic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to an idea or topic which is not of great importance or seriousness, often seen as unimportant or uninteresting. For example, "That is such a trivial topic - let's talk about something more meaningful instead."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He went to hear an analytic philosopher who spoke on a trivial topic but was quite lucid.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A trivial matter?

The New York Times - Arts

This is a trivial matter.

The New York Times

Quantitative easing is not a trivial matter.

The New York Times

That can't be a trivial matter.

The Guardian

And that is not a trivial matter.

The Economist

It's not a trivial matter.

The New Yorker

"Frankly, this is such a trivial matter".

The New York Times

This is not a trivial issue.

The New Yorker

That is not a trivial matter.

The New York Times

That would hardly be a trivial matter.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a trivial topic", ensure the context clearly indicates why the topic is considered unimportant, either in terms of impact, relevance, or depth.

Common error

Avoid using "a trivial topic" when the subject actually has hidden complexities or significant implications. This can undermine your credibility and confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a trivial topic" functions as a noun phrase, where "trivial" modifies the noun "topic". It serves to characterize the nature of the topic being discussed. Ludwig's examples show its usage in contexts ranging from philosophical discussions to everyday conversations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a trivial topic" is a phrase used to describe a subject that lacks importance or significance. According to Ludwig, its grammatical status is correct and it's most frequently found in news and academic contexts. While the phrase itself is relatively straightforward, writers should be mindful of the implications of labeling something as "trivial", ensuring it aligns with the actual substance and context of the discussion. By focusing on alternatives, such as "minor subject" or "insignificant issue", you may fine-tune the precise shade of meaning you wish to convey. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is usable in written English, though it should be employed thoughtfully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor subject

Focuses on the lack of importance of the subject.

an insignificant issue

Emphasizes the lack of significance or consequence.

a petty matter

Suggests the topic is small and possibly irritating.

a trifling subject

Highlights the lack of seriousness or weight.

a lightweight topic

Implies the topic lacks depth or substance.

a superficial matter

Focuses on the lack of depth or thoroughness.

a shallow topic

Similar to superficial, suggesting a lack of depth.

a negligible issue

Emphasizes that the issue is so small it can be ignored.

an inconsequential topic

Stresses the lack of consequence or importance.

a small matter

Simple and direct way of indicating lack of importance.

FAQs

What does "a trivial topic" mean?

The phrase "a trivial topic" refers to a subject that is unimportant, insignificant, or lacking in serious value. It's something not worth spending much time or attention on.

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

You might say, "The committee spent hours debating "a trivial topic" while ignoring the more pressing issues at hand."

What are some synonyms for "a trivial topic"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a minor subject", "an insignificant issue", or "a petty matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

It is appropriate when the subject matter genuinely lacks importance or consequence in the given context, and when emphasizing its relative unimportance is relevant to your point.