inconsiderable
/,inkən'sidərəbl/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective 1. Too small or unimportant to merit attention or consideration: Describes something of such little size, amount, value, or significance that it is not worth noticing or worrying about. 2. Negligible; trivial: Refers to a matter so minor that it can be disregarded.
Usage
The adjective "inconsiderable" is used to modify nouns, indicating their lack of importance or magnitude. It is a formal term, often used in written or academic contexts. It is typically used in negative constructions (e.g., "not inconsiderable") to emphasize that something is, in fact, significant.
Examples
- The sum of money involved was inconsiderable and not worth arguing over.
- He made an inconsiderable contribution to the project, so his name was not included in the report.
- She has no inconsiderable talent as a pianist. (This means she has or significant talent.)
- The task required not inconsiderable effort to complete. (This means it required a significant amount of effort.)
Advanced Usage
- Litotes: "Inconsiderable" is frequently used in the rhetorical figure of litotes, where a positive statement is expressed by negating its opposite. Saying something is "not inconsiderable" is a formal and understated way of saying it is "considerable" or "significant."
- His research had a not inconsiderable impact on the field.
- Formal/Archaic Tone: In modern usage, synonyms like "negligible," "insignificant," or "trivial" are more common. "Inconsiderable" can sound somewhat formal or literary.
Variants and Related Words
- Considerable (adj.): Large in size, amount, or extent; significantly important. This is the direct antonym.
- Inconsiderately (adv.): In a thoughtless or rude manner. (Note: This is related to "inconsiderate," not "inconsiderable," and has a different meaning concerning thoughtfulness toward others.)
- Consideration (n.): Careful thought; a factor taken into account.
Synonyms
- Negligible
- Insignificant
- Trivial
- Minor
- Petty
- Paltry
- Inconsequential
Antonyms
- Considerable
- Significant
- Substantial
- Important
- Major
Adjective
- too small or unimportant to merit attention
- passed his life in an inconsiderable village
- their duties were inconsiderable
- had no inconsiderable influence