Meaning & Definition of word "Ineffectual"

Ineffectual

/ˌɪnɪˈfɛktʃuəl/

adjective:

  • 1. Not producing any or the desired effect; ineffective.
    • Example: The committee's efforts to resolve the conflict were ultimately ineffectual.
  • 2. Lacking the ability or qualities to cope with a situation.
    • Example: His ineffectual attempt to convince her only made her more determined.
  • 3. Insufficient to produce a desired result.
    • Example: The ineffectual measures taken by the management led to a decline in employee morale.

Etymology

From the Latin 'ineffectualis', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'effectualis' meaning 'effective'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

ineffectual apology:

An apology that does not seem sincere or does not resolve the issue.

ineffectual attempts:

Attempts that fail to achieve the expected outcome.

Related Words

ineffectiveness:

The quality of not producing the desired effect.

ineffective:

Not producing the desired or intended result.

Slang Meanings of ineffectual

Meaning: A total flop.

Example Sentence: That plan was a total flop; it was completely ineffectual.

Meaning: Going nowhere.

Example Sentence: The meeting was going nowhere; all the ideas were just ineffectual.