Meaning of futile in English

Table of contents
  1. Pronunciation
  2. Classifying Adjective
    1. Definitions

  1. Pronunciation

    /ˈfjudl/

    US accent Play button

    UK accent Play button

  1. Classifying Adjective

    futile

    Definitions

    1. producing no result or effect

    Examples

    • « a futile effort »
    • « the therapy was ineffectual »
    • « an otiose undertaking »
    • « an unavailing attempt »

    Synonyms

  2. 2. unproductive of success

    Examples

    • « a fruitless search »
    • « futile years after her artistic peak »
    • « a sleeveless errand »
    • « a vain attempt »

    Synonyms

Famous quotes

  • « Until the control of the issue of currency and credit is restored to government and recognized as its most conspicuous and sacred responsibility, all talks of the sovereignty of Parliament and of democracy is idle and futile. »
    William Lyon Mackenzie King
  • « Power without principle is barren, but principle without power is futile. This is a party of government, and I will lead it as a party of government. »
    Tony Blair
  • « Without knowledge action is useless and knowledge without action is futile. »
    Abu Bakr
  • « There are many people who feel that it is useless and futile to continue talking about peace and non-violence against a government whose only reply is savage attacks on an unarmed and defenceless people. »
    Nelson Mandela
  • « Trying to be Supermom is as futile as trying to be Perfect Mom. Not going to happen. »
    Arianna Huffington

Browse dictionary