futile

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.

He observes that, from an engineering perspective, it might be futile to try making machines that are fully human—after all, our various abilities have been refined through a lengthy, data-rich evolution.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

In the face of a robot invasion, resistance is futile.

From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026

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

Still, in Gloria’s disheveled home, where the back door is left open to the muddy yard, her efforts are futile.

From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario