The phrase "trifle away" means to waste time or treat something as unimportant. The pronunciation of "trifle" is /ˈtraɪfəl/ (trai-fuhl) with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling of "away" is straightforward, but the word "trifle" can be tricky. The "f" is pronounced as a voiced consonant /v/ in American English, as in "vital." The "i" is pronounced as a long English "i" or "ahy" sound. So the correct pronunciation of "trifle" is "tray-fuhl."
To "trifle away" refers to the act of wastefully or carelessly squandering or frittering away something, often time or resources, without regard for its value or significance. The term "trifle" itself connotes something of little importance or worth, and when used in conjunction with "away," it emphasizes the action of neglecting or dissipating it thoughtlessly.
When a person trifle away their time, it means they engage in idle, frivolous or unproductive activities instead of utilizing it purposefully or constructively. This could involve engaging in meaningless distractions, aimlessly surfing the internet, or spending excessive amounts of time on mindless activities that serve no real purpose, while neglecting tasks or responsibilities.
Similarly, "trifle away" can refer to the wasteful expenditure of resources, such as money, energy, or effort, without achieving substantial results. It implies a lack of consideration for the value or significance of the resources being expended, exhibiting a careless attitude towards their utilization.
The phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of disregarding or underappreciating opportunities, relationships, or experiences that hold significance or potential value. By "trifling away" these valuable aspects, one fails to give them the attention or importance they deserve, leading to missed opportunities or regret.
Overall, to "trifle away" implies a careless or thoughtless behavior characterized by the squandering or wasteful dissipation of time, resources, or valuable aspects of life without due consideration for their worth.
The word "trifle" originated from Middle English "trufle", which means to mock or deceive. It derived from Old French "trufle", meaning to trick or play a joke. The term "trifle away" combines this meaning with the word "away", signifying wasting or squandering. Therefore, "trifle away" essentially means to waste or spend time or resources frivolously or without purpose.