Word meaning
futile
adjective · FYOO-tul
What does futile mean?
Futile means incapable of producing any useful result; pointless.
Futile in a sentence
“Trying to fold a fitted sheet felt futile.”
Synonyms for futile
- pointless
- useless
- vain
Where does futile come from?
From Latin futilis, "leaky."
How to remember futile
- Say it out loud a few times: FYOO-tul.
- Write one sentence of your own using futile, about something that happened to you today.
- Quiz yourself tomorrow, in three days, and next week. Spaced reviews are what make new words stick.
More words worth knowing
- diatribe — a forceful and bitter verbal attack.
- tantalize — to torment or tease with the sight or promise of something unobtainable.
- succinct — briefly and clearly expressed.
- eminent — famous and respected within a particular field.
- vicarious — experienced through the actions of another person.
- formidable — inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, or capable.