What is the meaning of the word "trivial"?We used to use it exclusively in negative terms.But rightly be considered the expression "trivial" synonymous with "banal", "primitive" or even "vulgar"?Where did it come from, apparently overseas mot?In this article we will look at several theories about the origin of the term, and his subsequent metamorphosis rooting in Russian.Remember, in any case it is appropriate to use that word.And to explore the question of why some pedants of science the word "sugar", "nitrate" or "strawberry" is also considered trivial expressions.
first version of the origin of the term
All researchers agree that the "triviality" - a Latin word ending with Russian inherent nouns.Most approximate translation of the term trivialis - «in three ways."What was at the crossroads of ancient settlements in Europe?Historians say that the location for fairs or the tavern.In such places, going to the common people, we discussed the news that everyone's lips, debates were not the highest level of oratory.Therefore, first in French and then in other dialects expression "trivialis" ie "at the intersection of three roads," acquired a figurative meaning.On the one hand, it is something unassumingly, nemudrenyh.But on the other - often repeated after the intelligent people, hackneyed, trite, unoriginal.Earlier in the Russian-language term carrying meaning "everyday", "normal", but then gradually acquired a negative connotation - "vulgar."
second version of the origin of the term
Other researchers see the noble trivium at the root of the word "trivial."This is one of the classic medieval levels of education.When the boy mastered reading, writing and numeracy, he could have done, in modern terms, to "Preparatory Department" University.There he studied the "trivium" - three free arts.Grammar - is the foundation of all knowledge.It included a review of the literature, and even mastering the art of poetry.Rhetoric, according Rabanne Moors, made it possible to correctly and clearly express their thoughts (both in writing and the audience), and introduces the student to the fundamentals of jurisprudence.It is also the art of drawing up public documents and records management.And finally, the dialectic or logic, the science of all sciences.The ability to think, to debate.This free art comprehended by means of the works of Aristotle in the translation of Boethius.As we see in this the origin of the word "trivial" there is nothing to be ashamed of.Conversely, one who has mastered the trivium, already considered extraordinary, learned man.
vulgarization term
Where did matter, that "trivial" - it is something banal, devoid of originality and novelty, what no flight no thought or spirit?Do not forget that the trivium is only the first (and lower) stage in the education system of the Middle Ages.Next, students learn the "quadrivium» (quadrivium).This level includes four free arts - music, arithmetic, geometry and astronomy.It must be assumed that medieval Studios also had a "hazing", expressed in contempt for a more "rough-hewn" with fellow junior courses.In the mouth of a well-trained cleric "trivial man" - is the one who mastered only the trivium.We are talking about dropout with incomplete higher education.
«triviality": value in chemistry, biology and mathematics
in these sectors of human knowledge, the term does not always have a negative meaning.If any substances or living organisms get their name before the introduction of scientific nomenclature, which provides the name of the objects according to their chemical composition, molecular structure and phylogenetic data, they are considered "trivial."Such is the sugar (α-D-glucopyranosyl-β-D-fructofuranoside), baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), strawberry (strawberry) and night blindness (Ranunculus acris).In mathematics, the triviality - a certain number close to zero.And arithmetic equation that operate on these figures.
Use colloquially
But "trivial" as a scientific term is no exception to the rule.In the vernacular daily use that word carries a clear meaning.It is trite sayings, battered, well-worn maxim.With regard to clothing, the term can mean mediocrity, lack of style and originality.It is also about something simple or self-evident say it - trivial.A synonym of the expression in this case - "a common place".Sometimes referred to as shallow trivial, banal thoughts when a person operates formulaic concepts.In Russian, the word has a tinge of vulgarity and a touchdown.To say of a man that he is - sheer triviality, therefore, to say that it is boring and uninteresting.So before you call so your companion, I think, because he might be offended.
