Skip to content

What is another word for Futile? – 118 Futile Synonyms

    Need another word for Futile? Use these synonyms of Futile from our thesaurus to say it differently.


    Synonyms & Similar Words

    useless pointless ineffective ineffectual unproductive unavailing unsuccessful abortive fruitless hopeless despairing helpless aimless purposeless meaningless hollow empty vain unprofitable worthless idle otiose barren sterile unfruitful unsuccessful unsuccessful bootless forlorn lamentable pitiful pathetic lamentable

    Meaning of Futile

    The primary meaning of the word "futile" is having no purpose or effect.

    Definitions

    • Having no purpose or effect
    • * Incapable of producing any useful result
    • * Lacking in substance or significance

    Etymology of Futile

    The word "futile" comes from the Latin "futilis," meaning "leaky" or "cracked," which is derived from "fusus," meaning "spinning top" or "whirligig," and the suffix "-ile," which forms an adjective indicating a quality or condition
    Historically, the word "futile" has been used to describe something as useless or ineffective, and has been in use since the 15th century

    Example Uses

    • The attempt to fix the broken machine was futile, as it was beyond repair
    • * She made a futile effort to change his mind, but he was resolute in his decision
    • * The war was a futile attempt to gain control over the territory, and it ended in defeat

    Antonyms & Near Antonyms

    effective successful productive useful fruitful hopeful purposeful meaningful valuable profitable efficient capable competent potent powerful strong vigorous robust dynamic energetic forceful compelling

    Related Nouns

    effort attempt endeavor struggle try experiment trial test undertaking venture project initiative campaign crusade movement action activity exercise exertion strain labor toil drudgery

    Related Verbs

    try attempt endeavor strive struggle exert labor toil drudge grind slog strive aim seek pursue undertake venture launch initiate commence begin

    Related Adjectives

    ineffective inefficient unproductive useless worthless valueless pointless meaningless aimless purposeless hopeless helpless despairing desperate despondent depressed dejected disheartened discouraged