wasted effort

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.

Two months later, it increasingly seems that such discussion was a wasted effort, as the chance this ballroom will actually be built is rapidly disappearing.

From Salon • Dec. 19, 2025

Instead of empowering employees and reducing pressure on managers, delegation leads to frustration for both, as well as wasted effort and low motivation for team members.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 13, 2025

“No change, wasted effort and it’s all for nothing,” Espinoza, 51, said.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2024

But what was looking like a wasted effort quickly became a close call.

From New York Times • Sep. 8, 2022

I don’t have to hope then, or make a wasted effort.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood