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futile

adjective

/ˈfjuːtʌɪl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of futile

Pointless, incapable of achieving the desired outcome, or destined to fail due to its inherent impracticality or ineffectiveness.
"The company's attempts to enter the highly competitive market were ultimately futile."

Detailed meaning of futile

When applied to actions, efforts, or endeavors, it signifies that they are without purpose or result, often leading to disappointment or frustration. For example, a futile attempt to solve an unsolvable problem highlights the hopelessness of the effort. This term conveys a sense of futility and emphasizes the idea that the subject being described is a waste of time, energy, or resources. "Futile" suggests that the objective is unattainable or that the means employed to achieve it are incapable of producing the desired result.

Example sentences containing futile

1. It is futile to try to argue with someone who is unwilling to listen.
2. The attempt to lift the heavy object proved to be futile.
3. It is often futile to try to reason with a child in the midst of a tantrum.
4. The search for the missing hiker was eventually called off as it seemed futile to continue.
5. It is futile to try to change someone's deeply held beliefs.
6. Many people see the pursuit of fame and fortune as a futile endeavor.

History and etymology of futile

The adjective 'futile' has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'futilis,' which means 'vain' or 'futile.' 'Futilis' itself comes from 'futuere,' a Latin verb that means 'to pour out' or 'to waste.' Therefore, the etymology of 'futile' conveys the idea of something being poured out or wasted, emphasizing its pointlessness or lack of effectiveness. In English, 'futile' is used to describe actions, efforts, or endeavors that are incapable of achieving the desired outcome or are destined to fail due to their inherent impracticality or ineffectiveness. The term 'futile' underscores the concept of actions that result in a sense of waste, reflecting its historical connection to the idea of futility and pointlessness.

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Further usage examples of futile

1. It is futile to try to escape from a maximum security prison.
2. The soldier realized that it was futile to try to hold the enemy line on his own.
3. It is often futile to try to predict the future with any degree of accuracy.
4. The team's efforts to make a comeback in the second half of the game were futile.
5. It is futile to try to save a plant that has already wilted and died.
6. His futile attempts to fix the antique watch only damaged it further.
7. It felt futile to argue with someone so entrenched in their beliefs.
8. The rescue mission proved futile as the storm intensified.
9. Her futile efforts to revive the wilting plant were in vain.
10. The search for the lost treasure proved futile after months of digging.
11. His futile objections couldn't stop the decision from being implemented.
12. The attempt to negotiate a peace treaty seemed futile in the face of ongoing conflict.
13. It's futile to resist change; adaptability is key in a dynamic world.
14. Their futile protests couldn't prevent the construction of the new highway.
15. The pursuit of perfection can sometimes be futile and exhausting.
16. Despite their futile resistance, the invaders overtook the city.
17. His attempts to save the sinking ship were ultimately futile.
18. In the face of a global pandemic, attempts to control the virus felt futile.
19. She realized the pursuit of material wealth was futile without inner contentment.
20. The futile exercise left him exhausted but no closer to his fitness goals.
21. Arguing with stubborn clients often proves futile; better to find common ground.
22. The battle against time is often futile; accept the inevitability of change.
23. Trying to please everyone is a futile endeavor; focus on your own values.
24. He recognized the futile nature of revenge and chose forgiveness instead.
25. The futile attempt to predict the unpredictable left the meteorologist frustrated.