in vain
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.
I tried in vain to hear whether Mrs. Maroney was disclosing her secrets about her own wayward husband.
From Literature
She steadily reasserted control in the closing rounds, increasing the pressure and unloading sustained combinations in the 10th as she searched in vain for a late stoppage.
From BBC
After clicking away with our cameras, we were thankful to have experienced a sight that many search for in vain.
From Los Angeles Times
"Otherwise it will all have been in vain."
From Barron's
It is a slog she has dealt with for years, while searching in vain for reasonably priced housing near work.
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
