Meaning & Definition of word "Futile"
Futile
/ˈfjuː.taɪl/
adjective:
- 1. Incapable of producing any useful result; pointless.
- Example: All their efforts to save the project seemed futile in the face of overwhelming opposition.
- 2. Serving no useful purpose; completely ineffective.
- Example: After weeks of futile attempts to fix the car, they decided to take it to a mechanic.
- 3. Having no chance of success.
- Example: Her futile attempt to persuade him to change his mind only caused further frustration.
Etymology
●From Latin 'futilis', meaning 'leaky' or 'worthless'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
futile attempt:
An effort that will not succeed.
futile plea:
A request that is unlikely to lead to any action.
futile struggle:
A fight or effort that is bound to fail.
Related Words
futility:
The quality of being futile; uselessness.
vain:
Producing no result; unsuccessful.
pointless:
Having no meaning or use.
Slang Meanings of futile
Meaning: A wild goose chase
● Example Sentence: Trying to change his mind is just a wild goose chase, totally futile.
Meaning: Beating a dead horse
● Example Sentence: Continuing to argue about it is just beating a dead horse; it's completely futile.