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.