What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mere
Example
It was a mere coincidence that we ran into each other at the store. [mere: adjective]
Example
The book was a mere 100 pages long. [mere: adjective]
trivial
Example
The argument was trivial and not worth continuing. [trivial: adjective]
Example
I don't want to waste time on trivial matters. [trivial: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trivial is more commonly used than mere in everyday language. Trivial is often used to describe things that are not worth much attention or consideration, while mere is less common and is used to emphasize the smallness or simplicity of something.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between mere and trivial?
Both mere and trivial can be used in formal and informal contexts, but mere is generally considered to be more formal than trivial.
