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.

It might be futile to try making machines that are fully human.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 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

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

From Slate • Jan. 15, 2026

Later, while Dad retreated to the living room and Mom fumed in the kitchen, the football boys from Coalwood gathered in Jim’s room, plotting futile anarchy.

From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam