Both Uses
trifle
in
The Secret Sharer
(Auto-generated)
- It was, as it were, trifling with the terrific character of his whiskers; but my object was to give him an opportunity for a good look at my cabin.†
*trifling with = treating thoughtlessly or without respect
- These are trifling instances, though it's to no commander's advantage to be suspected of ludicrous eccentricities.†
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Definitions:
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(1)
(trifle as in: a trifling matter) something of small importance; or a small quantity
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(2)
(trifle with as in: trifle with her affections) to treat somebody or something thoughtlessly or without respect
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(3)
(meaning too rare to warrant focus) A trifle can refer to a kind of dessert. In classic literature, trifling can be a synonym for small talk.