piffling
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈpɪflɪŋ/
KK: /ˈpɪflɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Something that is not important or has little value.
Example
He dismissed the piffling details of the report as irrelevant.
Conversation
Did you hear about the meeting tomorrow?
Yeah, but I think it's just about some piffling issues.
I agree, it seems like a waste of time.
Exactly! We should focus on the bigger projects instead.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
trivial
petty
insignificant
Antonyms
important
significant
meaningful
verb
Definition
To talk nonsense or waste time on trivial matters.
Example
He spent the afternoon piffling instead of working on his project.
Tense Forms
Past: piffled
Past Participle: piffled
Conversation
Did you hear about the argument they had last night?
Yeah, it was so piffling, I couldn't believe it.
Right? They were upset over something so small.
Root Explanation
Piffling → The word originates from the Middle English 'piffling', which is a diminutive form of 'piffle', meaning to waste time or engage in trivial matters. The term conveys a sense of something being insignificant or trivial.
Memory Tip
Think of 'piffling' as engaging in trivial activities that waste time, reminding you that it refers to something unimportant.
Visually Confused Words
spiffing
piling
whiffling
skiffling
upfling
spiling
rifling
puffing