Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Lacking seriousness; not having any serious purpose or value: Describes something that is silly, trivial, or concerned with unimportant matters rather than serious things.
   • Carefree and not serious in attitude or behavior: Describes a person who behaves in a light-hearted, unserious, or superficial way.

Usage and Examples

• Describing actions, remarks, or concerns:

  • The lawsuit was dismissed as frivolous. (The legal claim was considered to have no serious purpose or merit.)
  • She regretted her frivolous spending on clothes. (She regretted spending money on clothes in a way that was not serious or sensible.)
  • He made a frivolous comment during the important meeting. (He made a silly or trivial remark when seriousness was required.)

• Describing people or their nature:

  • In her youth, she was often seen as a frivolous socialite. (In her youth, she was perceived as a person concerned with trivial pleasures and social events.)
  • Don't be so frivolous; this is a serious matter. (Don't be so unserious or light-hearted; this issue is important.)

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• Legal Context: In law, a frivolous lawsuit or claim is one presented without any serious chance of success, often intended to harass or cause delay.
  • The judge imposed a fine for filing a frivolous motion.
• Contrast with 'Serious': Often used to criticize or highlight a contrast with expected gravity or importance.
  • He focused on frivolous details while ignoring the core problem.

Variants and Related Words

• Frivolity (noun): The quality or state of being frivolous; silly behavior or a trivial thing.
  • The evening was an occasion for pure frivolity.
• Frivolously (adverb): In a frivolous manner.
  • She frivolously spent her entire allowance.

Synonyms

• Trivial: Of little value or importance.
• Flippant: Not showing a serious or respectful attitude.
• Superficial: Concerned only with the obvious or apparent; shallow.
• Flighty: Fickle and irresponsible, especially in a light-hearted way.

Antonyms

• Serious: Thoughtful, solemn, or important.
• Sober: Serious, sensible, and solemn.
• Earnest: Resulting from or showing sincere conviction.

Idioms and Common Phrases

• "Frivolous pursuits": Activities that are trivial or undertaken for amusement rather than for a serious purpose.
  • He had no time for frivolous pursuits during the exam period.
• "Frivolous and vexatious" (Legal Phrase): A term used to describe a legal action that is both without serious merit and brought to annoy the opponent.
  • The claim was struck out as being frivolous and vexatious.

Adjective

1. not serious in content or attitude or behavior
   • a frivolous novel
   • a frivolous remark
   • a frivolous young woman