trivialize
UK: ˈtrɪv.i.ə.laɪz | US: ˈtrɪv.i.ə.laɪz
vt. to make something seem less important, complex, or valuable than it really is
vt. to reduce a significant matter to a superficial or simplistic level
trivialize = trivial<commonplace> + ize<verb suffix>
- trivial (from Latin trivialis, "common, ordinary," derived from trivium "crossroads" (tri<three> + via<road>), where mundane matters were often discussed).
- ize (verb-forming suffix from Greek -izein, indicating "to render or make").
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to the Latin trivium, a crossroads where three roads met—a public space associated with everyday chatter and trivialities. Over time, "trivial" came to mean "unimportant." Adding -ize transforms it into an action: "to make something seem unimportant." The evolution reflects a societal metaphor: reducing complexity to the level of casual roadside talk.
The media often trivializes serious political issues.
Don’t trivialize her achievements by calling them "luck."
His speech trivialized the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
Comedy can trivialize trauma if handled insensitively.
The documentary avoids trivializing the historical event.