What Is Another Way to Say “Not Serious”?

Looking for synonyms for not serious? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say not serious.

  • Frivolous
  • Trivial
  • Inconsequential
  • Unimportant
  • Minor
  • Nonessential
  • Light-hearted
  • Flippant
  • Casual
  • Superficial
  • Unsubstantial
  • Nonserious
  • Petty
  • Negligible
  • Slight
  • Facetious
  • Jocular
  • Playful
  • Irreverent
  • Carefree

Want to learn how to say not serious professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Frivolous

Use when: Describing something lacking in seriousness or importance.
Example: “We cannot afford to invest time in frivolous pursuits that do not align with our strategic goals.”

2. Trivial

Use when: Indicating something of little importance or value.
Example: “Let’s focus on the major issues and not get sidetracked by trivial details.”

3. Inconsequential

Use when: Referring to something that is unimportant or insignificant.
Example: “The errors in the report were deemed inconsequential and didn’t affect the overall outcome.”

4. Unimportant

Use when: Describing something that does not have much importance or relevance.
Example: “We should prioritize our tasks and not waste time on unimportant matters.”

5. Minor

Use when: Indicating something of lesser importance or seriousness.
Example: “The team handled a few minor issues during the project’s initial phase.”

6. Nonessential

Use when: Referring to something that is not absolutely necessary.
Example: “In an effort to cut costs, the company will eliminate nonessential expenses.”

7. Light-hearted

Use when: Describing an attitude or approach that is carefree and not serious.
Example: “The meeting concluded with some light-hearted remarks from the manager.”

8. Flippant

Use when: Indicating a lack of seriousness or respect, often in an inappropriate way.
Example: “A flippant comment during the negotiation could undermine our professionalism.”

9. Casual

Use when: Describing something informal, relaxed, or occurring by chance.
Example: “The team’s casual approach to the deadline could jeopardize the project’s success.”

10. Superficial

Use when: Referring to something that is only on the surface or shallow, without depth.
Example: “A superficial analysis will not reveal the underlying complexities of this issue.”

11. Unsubstantial

Use when: Indicating something that lacks solidity, real value, or significance.
Example: “The proposal was unsubstantial and lacked the necessary details.”

12. Nonserious

Use when: Describing an attitude or approach that is not serious or earnest.
Example: “A nonserious attitude in these critical discussions is not appropriate.”

13. Petty

Use when: Referring to something of little importance, often in a derogatory sense.
Example: “We need to rise above petty office politics to focus on our larger objectives.”

14. Negligible

Use when: Indicating something so small or unimportant as to be not worth considering.
Example: “The risk associated with this decision is negligible and should not deter us.”

15. Slight

Use when: Describing something small in degree or inconsiderable.
Example: “The project encountered a slight delay but remained largely on track.”

16. Facetious

Use when: Indicating a joking or humorous attitude, often inappropriately.
Example: “His facetious remarks during the meeting were not well-received in such a serious context.”

17. Jocular

Use when: Referring to someone who is joking or playful in nature.
Example: “Her jocular demeanor helps maintain a light atmosphere in the office.”

18. Playful

Use when: Describing an approach or attitude that is full of fun and good spirits.
Example: “The team’s playful creativity was evident in their innovative marketing campaign.”

19. Irreverent

Use when: Indicating a lack of respect for things that are usually taken seriously.
Example: “An irreverent tone in the company memo may not sit well with all employees.”

20. Carefree

Use when: Describing a lack of serious concern or worry.
Example: “Her carefree approach to financial planning is not suitable for our conservative investment strategy.”

Linda Brown