frivolity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "frivolity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack of seriousness or a focus on trivial matters, often in a lighthearted or carefree context. Example: "While the meeting was meant to be serious, there was an air of frivolity that made it difficult to stay focused on the agenda."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the fact that more than fifteen per cent of personal consumption expenditures now go to medical care, when in 1930 only three per cent of personal consumption did, isn't a reflection of frivolity, and that's not going to change any time soon.

The Economist

Heading up the bill is Jeff Mills, still seen by many as the style's definitive voice: hostile to frivolity in an earnest quest for utopia, his sound is triple-distilled dance based around immaculate shifts in pace and mood.

The Guardian - Music

A Hansard Society report, "Electronic Media, Parliament and the People" (Hansard Society, £5.00), uncovered shocking evidence of the frivolity of the young.

The Economist

For him, their frivolity robbed the world of an era of peace, made possible by Mr Nixon's flawed strategic genius and Mr Kissinger's brilliant diplomacy.When Americans speak of Watergate, they are referring not only to the break-in at the Watergate building, but the whole course of illegal behaviour that Mr Nixon encouraged to improve his chances of winning the 1972 election.

The Economist

Nobody will accuse you of immaturity or frivolity; just the opposite.

The Economist

British American Tobacco is considered by some to be run as a proper business, and few of us would accuse their managers of frivolity.

The Economist

For their detractors it was proof of unbecoming frivolity on a solemn occasion.In this section No longer a shining example Will there be more?

The Economist

Of the 16 candidates, only one frankly espouses a mix of social and economic liberalism: he should get about 3% of the vote.Apathy, winsome nostalgia and fist-waving frivolity are running neck-and-neck.

The Economist

It encompasses exploration and frivolity, not just necessity.

The Economist

They point to the frivolity of phenomena such as overseas stag weekends.

The Economist

It is certainly unusual: countless former veeps have complained of the utter uselessness and frivolity of the position, or that it is not worth a bucket of warm spit (a remark ascribed to John Garner, Franklin Roosevelt's first vice-president).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about serious subjects, be mindful of unintentional "frivolity". Maintain a tone appropriate for your audience and topic.

Common error

Avoid using "frivolity" to describe harmless fun. "Frivolity" often carries a connotation of inappropriateness or lack of seriousness in a setting that calls for it.

Linguistic Context

The noun "frivolity" functions primarily to describe a state or quality of being frivolous. It refers to the lack of seriousness, or the act of being lighthearted and trivial, often in a way that is considered inappropriate. Ludwig AI indicates this term is used correctly in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Encyclopedias

33%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Frivolity" refers to a lack of seriousness, often in an inappropriate context. It is a noun that functions to describe a state or quality and is often used to express disapproval. As Ludwig AI indicates, the term is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While found across various contexts, it's most common in news and media and encyclopedia sources. Alternatives include "lightheartedness" and "triviality", though they carry slightly different connotations. When using "frivolity", ensure the context warrants the implication of inappropriateness or lack of seriousness, and remember that maintaining an appropriate tone is key to avoiding unintended offense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lightheartedness

Focuses on the positive, cheerful aspect of lacking seriousness.

Triviality

Emphasizes the insignificance and unimportance of something.

Levity

Highlights a humorous or light-hearted approach, especially in a serious context.

Giddiness

Implies a state of excitement and silliness, often to an excessive degree.

Facetiousness

Suggests treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor.

Jocularity

Refers to a playful and humorous manner, often in speech.

Skittishness

Implies a lack of focus and a tendency to jump from one thing to another.

Foolishness

Emphasizes the lack of wisdom and good judgment.

Idle amusement

Highlights the lack of purpose or productivity in entertainment.

Superficiality

Focuses on the lack of depth and genuine concern.

FAQs

How is "frivolity" typically used in a sentence?

"Frivolity" is often used to describe a lack of seriousness or inappropriate lightheartedness in situations that warrant gravity. For example, "His "frivolity" during the serious discussion was inappropriate".

What are some words similar to "frivolity"?

Synonyms for "frivolity" include "lightheartedness", "triviality", and "levity", each carrying slightly different nuances.

Is it appropriate to use "frivolity" in formal writing?

While "frivolity" is a valid word, its appropriateness depends on the context. In very formal or academic writing, more precise or serious terms might be preferable to avoid any perception of trivializing the subject.

What is the difference between "frivolity" and "fun"?

"Fun" generally refers to enjoyment and pleasure, while "frivolity" suggests a lack of seriousness, often implying that the fun is inappropriate or ill-timed. "Frivolity" is fun that disregards importance.