How to Say "trifle" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “trifle” is “miseria” — use 'miseria' when referring to a sum of money or an amount that is insultingly small or of very little worth..
English → Spanish
miseria
mee-SEH-ryah/miˈse.rja/
nounC1general
Use 'miseria' when referring to a sum of money or an amount that is insultingly small or of very little worth.
Examples
Le pagaron una miseria por el trabajo de todo el mes.
They paid him a pittance for a whole month's work.
Solo había una miseria de pan en la nevera.
There was only a tiny bit of bread (a trifle) in the fridge.
tontería
nounB1general
Use 'tontería' when referring to a silly or unimportant matter, a trivial concern, or a foolish action.
Examples
No te enfades por esa tontería; no es importante.
Don't get angry over that trifle; it's not important.
Miseria vs. Tontería
Learners often confuse 'miseria' and 'tontería' by using 'miseria' for any unimportant thing. Remember, 'miseria' specifically relates to something of little monetary value or worth, while 'tontería' refers to a minor issue or silly matter.
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