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frivolous

Adjective

IPA /ˈfrɪvələs/

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Meaning in plain English

Not serious or useful when the situation calls for care or responsibility.

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Pronunciation

frivolous/ˈfrɪvələs/

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A serious issue needs careful attention
Someone contributes a silly, trivial remark

A frivolous comment lacks the seriousness the situation calls for.

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She regretted making a frivolous joke during the serious discussion.
The tutor asked us to replace frivolous comments with thoughtful feedback.

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She regretted making a ________ joke during the serious discussion.

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frivolous — Not serious or useful when the situation calls for care or responsibility.

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Not serious or useful when the situation calls for care or responsibility.

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Word origin

From Latin frivolus, meaning trivial or silly, with the ending -ous.

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Frivolous can describe comments, behaviour, activities or spending.

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