Ineffectual

/ˌɪnɪˈfɛktʃuəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Not producing any or the desired effect; ineffective.
The committee's efforts to resolve the conflict were ultimately ineffectual.
Lacking the ability or qualities to cope with a situation.
His ineffectual attempt to convince her only made her more determined.
Insufficient to produce a desired result.
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

Slang Meanings

A total flop.
That plan was a total flop; it was completely ineffectual.
Going nowhere.
The meeting was going nowhere; all the ideas were just ineffectual.