trifle with
trifle with (someone or something)
To treat or deal with someone or something in a frivolous or disrespectful manner. Often used in passive constructions. You can't just go through life trifling with people and their affections without any regard for their wellbeing. I wouldn't do that if I were you—the plans of the boss are not to be trifled with.
See also: trifle
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
trifle with someone or something
to act without seriousness or respect toward someone or something. Don't talk that way to me! I am not to be trifled with. I wish that Ann wouldn't trifle with our efforts at reform.
See also: trifle
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
trifle with
v.
To play or toy with someone or something: Don't trifle with my affections. My strict boss is not someone to be trifled with.
See also: trifle
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs.
- trifle with (someone or something)
- perceive
- perceive (someone or something) as (something)
- perceive as
- preclude
- preclude (someone or something) from (something)
- preclude from
- starve (someone or something) of (something)
- starve of
- sandwich between