trivial question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trivial question" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe a question that is considered unimportant or insignificant. Here are a few examples: - The speaker spent too much time answering trivial questions instead of addressing the main topic. - Please don't waste our time with trivial questions. Let's focus on the important issues at hand. - The quiz had a mix of easy and challenging questions, but there were also a few trivial questions that seemed to have no relevance to the subject matter.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

This isn't a trivial question.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is no trivial question," he said.

The New York Times - Science

"Ask a trivial question, get a profound, heartbreaking answer".

The New Yorker

OK, a purely trivial question to end on.

The Guardian - Music

It's not a trivial question in a discussion of virtue.

The New York Times - Books

As Ms. Steiber can testify, this is not a trivial question.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

These are not trivial questions.

The Guardian

Even the most trivial questions pass across his desk; practically all decisions are his.

The Economist

But the big picture is now so alarmingly vivid that it obscures these trivial questions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ward and Wegner carried out an experiment in which they asked trivial questions to two groups of people.

The Guardian - Opinion

"If people want to answer those trivial questions in 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,' then why not give them a math problem?" he asked.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "trivial question" when emphasizing that exploring the question will not yield significantly useful or insightful outcomes.

Common error

Avoid overuse of the phrase "trivial question" in formal documents or academic papers. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound dismissive. Consider using more neutral alternatives like "minor inquiry" or "unimportant question" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trivial question" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "trivial" modifies the noun "question". As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It describes a question that is of little importance or significance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

32%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "trivial question" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe an unimportant or insignificant inquiry. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific sources. While generally neutral, it should be used with caution in formal settings to avoid sounding dismissive. Consider alternatives such as "minor question" or "inconsequential question" for a more professional tone. The phrase is found in authoritative sources such as The Guardian, The New York Times, and Forbes. Overall, understanding the context and intended audience is key to using "trivial question" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Insignificant query

Replaces "trivial" with "insignificant", emphasizing the lack of importance of the question.

Unimportant inquiry

Uses "unimportant" instead of "trivial", highlighting that the question is not worth considering seriously.

Minor matter for consideration

Shifts the focus from the question itself to the insignificance of the issue it addresses.

Petty interrogation

Employs "petty" to underscore the trivial nature of the question, suggesting it's also somewhat bothersome or annoying.

Inconsequential problem posed

Changes "question" to "problem posed", focusing on the triviality of the issue raised.

Light subject for debate

Replaces "question" with "subject for debate", indicating the discussion is unserious.

Shallow line of inquiry

Uses "shallow" to emphasize the lack of depth in the question.

Superficial interrogation

Highlights the lack of depth or importance of the question being asked.

Frivolous line of questioning

Emphasizes the lack of seriousness or purpose of the question.

Negligible point raised

Highlights that the question is not only unimportant but also can be safely ignored.

FAQs

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

You can use "trivial question" to describe a question that is not important or significant. For example: "The discussion was bogged down by focusing on "trivial questions" instead of the main issues."

What's a more formal alternative to "trivial question"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "minor question", "inconsequential question", or "unimportant question" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it always appropriate to call a question "trivial"?

Calling a question "trivial" can sometimes come across as dismissive. Ensure the context warrants such a characterization and that it doesn't undermine productive discussion or discourage inquiry.

What is the difference between a "trivial question" and an "irrelevant question"?

A "trivial question" is unimportant, while an "irrelevant question" is unrelated to the topic at hand. A question can be trivial without being irrelevant, and vice versa.