Fall not out with a friend for a trifle.

Understand the thought

Meaning in plain English

Do not let a small disagreement needlessly destroy a worthwhile friendship. Consider the importance of the issue and seek a proportionate response before turning irritation into a lasting quarrel.

What the words are saying

To fall out is to quarrel or become estranged; a trifle is a matter of little consequence. The proverb asks someone to weigh the relationship against the immediate irritation. A minor misunderstanding may be settled by asking a question, explaining a preference or allowing a small imperfection to pass. The difficulty is deciding whether the matter really is minor. Repeated disrespect or a seemingly small act with serious consequences should not be dismissed merely to preserve peace. Its useful advice is proportionality: discuss what matters without making an isolated small annoyance carry the weight of the whole friendship.

Everyday example

Two friends disagree over where to have lunch and choose a different place instead of treating the choice as evidence that neither values the other.

When to use it

Use it when an isolated minor disagreement is escalating beyond its real importance.

Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.