Piddling: meaning, definitions and examples
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piddling
[ˈpɪd.lɪŋ ]
Definition
trivial matters
The term 'piddling' is often used to describe something that is insignificant or trivial. It refers to matters that are considered unimportant or of little value. This word is often used in a derogatory manner to downplay the significance of an activity or object. People might use 'piddling' when they want to express disdain for something overly trivial or when they believe their time could be better spent. Overall, it conveys a sense of disdain towards the subject it describes.
Synonyms
insignificant, minor, petty, trivial.
Examples of usage
- He spent his afternoon on piddling tasks.
- Stop wasting time on those piddling details.
- The piddling issues should not distract us from the main goal.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'piddling' originated from the verb 'piddle', which means to waste time or do minor tasks.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Old English 'pidda', meaning a small or insignificant thing.
- The word has been in use since the 19th century, showing that small matters have long been part of language.
Psychology
- Focusing on 'piddling' tasks can lead to procrastination, where important tasks are delayed.
- Psychologists suggest that engaging in small, insignificant tasks can provide a false sense of productivity.
- 'Piddling' can sometimes serve as a coping mechanism for anxiety, allowing individuals to feel busy without facing larger challenges.
Literature
- In literature, characters engaging in 'piddling' activities often highlight their flaws or reluctance to confront larger issues.
- Notable authors, such as Jane Austen, have depicted characters whose obsessions with trivial matters reflect deeper themes of social commentary.
- The term appears in various comedic contexts, allowing writers to emphasize the folly in focusing on the minor over the significant.
Pop Culture
- 'Piddling' moments are often used in comedy shows or films to create humor by showcasing absurdly minor crises.
- In social media, 'piddling' posts can illustrate the contrast between the mundane and significant aspects of life.
- The word has been used in popular songs to convey feelings of wastefulness or going in circles in relationships.
Translations
Translations of the word "piddling" in other languages:
🇵🇹 insignificante
🇮🇳 निरर्थक
🇩🇪 unbedeutend
🇮🇩 remeh
🇺🇦 незначний
🇵🇱 bez znaczenia
🇯🇵 取るに足らない
🇫🇷 insignifiant
🇪🇸 insignificante
🇹🇷 önemsiz
🇰🇷 하찮은
🇸🇦 تافه
🇨🇿 nepatrný
🇸🇰 nepodstatný
🇨🇳 微不足道
🇸🇮 nepomemben
🇮🇸 ómerkilegur
🇰🇿 маңызды емес
🇬🇪 არასერიოზული
🇦🇿 əhəmiyyətsiz
🇲🇽 insignificante