futile
Meaning(s)
1. pointless; incapable of producing any useful result
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Low
Social
How to Memorize
futile attempt
Analysis
Something which is 'futile' is useless, a waste of time or an effort that doesn't produce any significant results. This is a more formal way of saying 'useless'. You will most often hear this word used in the phrase 'efforts were futile'. Used more in professional contexts.
Social Examples (Advance)
- The businessman's attempt to re-brand his company was futile and it ultimately went bankrupt.
- It is futile to apply for a passport without the necessary documentation. Your application won't be processed.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- An expensive marketing campaign is futile without an effective sales funnel to back it up.
- I don't think it's wise to dedicate a large amount of resources to this kind of research if it is in danger of being futile.