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Definitions

futile

[fyoot-l, fyoo-tahyl] / ˈfyut l, ˈfyu taɪl /
ADJECTIVE
hopeless, pointless
Synonyms
STRONGEST
fruitless hollow impractical ineffective ineffectual insufficient trivial unproductive unprofitable unsuccessful useless vain worthless
WEAK
abortive barren bootless delusive empty exhausted forlorn idle impracticable in vain no dice nugatory on a treadmill otiose out the window profitless resultless save one's breath sterile to no avail to no effect to no purpose trifling unavailing unimportant unneeded unreal unsatisfactory unsubstantial valueless
Antonyms
STRONGEST
effective fruitful helpful productive profitable successful useful valuable worthwhile
WEAK
hopeful

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For now, mining is largely done in ways reminiscent of the United States' gold rush in the 19th century, when so many ended up exhausted in a futile hunt for treasure.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

It was felt that any surgical intervention would be futile, the court heard.

From BBC • Jan. 20, 2026

After her attempts to hide from the colectivos proved futile, Irma decided she had to start over somewhere new.

From Slate • Jan. 15, 2026

There was enough hope in everyday life to hold onto, and the starry-eyed vision of the future made the rapture’s fearmongering futile.

From Salon • Dec. 21, 2025

Jefferson summoned a physician but it was futile, and Isaac’s mother, Ursula, died in April 1800.

From "In the Shadow of Liberty" by Kenneth C. Davis

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.