trifling crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Find quick and accurate solutions for the 'trifling crossword clue' right here. We provide answers of various lengths, along with detailed explanations to help you solve your puzzle with ease and efficiency.
Solutions for "trifling crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PETTY: Referring to something of little importance or trivial. Often used to describe small, insignificant matters or behavior.
MINOR: Denoting something that is of lesser importance, size, or degree compared to something else.
SMALL: Indicating something of limited size, quantity, or significance. Can imply an unimportant nature.
6 Letters
PALTRY: Describing something that is small or meager, especially in amount, often to the point of being insulting or trivial.
SLIGHT: Of small importance, value, or amount; inconsiderable. Often implies something barely noticeable.
7 Letters
TRIVIAL: Of little value or importance; trifling. Directly synonymous with the clue itself.
8 Letters
NUGATORY: Of no value or importance; useless or futile. A more formal synonym for trifling.
PICAYUNE: Of little value or importance; paltry. Often used to describe something trivial or petty.
More About "trifling crossword clue"
The clue "trifling" in a crossword puzzle aims to evoke answers related to insignificance, unimportance, or triviality. This type of clue often tests a solver's vocabulary for synonyms that describe something small, minor, or inconsequential in nature. Understanding the nuances between words like PETTY, TRIVIAL, and PALTRY is key to selecting the correct answer, as each may carry slightly different connotations regarding the degree or context of its unimportance.
Crossword setters love using words like "trifling" because they have a wide range of synonyms across various letter counts, providing flexibility for puzzle construction. When encountering such a clue, it's beneficial to think about situations where something might be considered insignificant – whether it's a minor argument (petty), a small amount of money (paltry), or an irrelevant detail (trivial). This contextual thinking can guide you towards the precise word needed for the grid.
Beyond direct synonyms, consider phrases that imply trifling, such as "of no consequence" or "not worth mentioning." While these aren't single-word answers, they help reinforce the core meaning and might lead to a more abstract interpretation of the clue if paired with a more complex answer in a cryptic crossword.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all Synonyms: For clues like 'trifling,' think broadly about all possible synonyms for 'unimportant,' 'minor,' 'trivial,' and 'insignificant.' Keep a thesaurus handy or use an online one.
- Match Letter Count Precisely: Always confirm the number of letters in your potential answer matches the space provided in the crossword grid. This is the first and most critical filter.
- Check Cross-References: Use intersecting letters from other solved clues to eliminate possibilities. If a letter doesn't fit, your chosen answer for 'trifling' might be incorrect.
- Think About Context: Sometimes the puzzle's theme or other clues might hint at whether the 'trifling' element refers to money, a person's character, or an event.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'trifling' typically mean in a crossword puzzle context?
In crosswords, 'trifling' usually refers to something of little importance, value, or significance. Common synonyms like PETTY, MINOR, TRIVIAL, or PALTRY are frequent answers, depending on the letter count and surrounding clues.
Are there other common clues for 'unimportant' or 'insignificant' answers?
Yes, clues such as 'of no account,' 'not worth bothering about,' 'minor detail,' or 'paltry sum' can lead to similar answers. Always consider the nuance of the clue and the number of letters required.
How can I improve my vocabulary for abstract clues like 'trifling'?
To improve, regularly read diverse texts, use a thesaurus for words you know to find synonyms and antonyms, and pay attention to how words are used in different contexts. Practicing with various crossword types also helps expand your crossword-specific vocabulary.