Trifle with Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation Using 'trifle with' suggests negative judgment and criticism towards the behavior. Don't trifle with her trust; it's all she has left. Pro Tip 2/3Serious Matters It is often used when the matters are serious and important to someone. The jury must not trifle with the evidence presented in this case. Pro Tip 3/3Potential Harm Implies that not treating something or someone with respect could cause harm. One should never trifle with safety procedures at a construction site.