futile

Everyday

Having no chance of success; useless, because it cannot change anything. tree →

In the lessons

In stories, a futile attempt or struggle shows hopelessness: «it was futile to run». In arguments and ethics, people debate whether something is futile or worth trying. Phrases: «a futile attempt», «it is futile to», «futile effort».

Examples

• It was futile to argue with the referee. tree →
• The fly made futile attempts to get through the window. tree →
• Trying to stay dry in that storm was futile. tree →
• Their search for the lost ring seemed futile until the dog found it. tree →
• Don't think practice is futile; it does help. tree →
• He made a futile effort to catch the bus. tree →

Note

Adjective. Pronounced «FYOO-tile» (UK) or «FYOO-tl» (US). Noun: futility. Stronger and more formal than «useless» or «pointless».