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Wordabulary

futile

Pronunciation
Adjective C1 Advanced

Quick answer

Having no real chance of succeeding, so that the effort spent on it is essentially wasted.

"Trying to argue with him once he's made up his mind is futile."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

pointless fruitless

Antonyms

effective worthwhile

Usage notes

Often appears in the pattern "a futile attempt to" or "it's futile to".

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "Trying to argue with him once he's made up his mind is _____."

Answer: futile

In your own words, what does "futile" mean?

Having no real chance of succeeding, so that the effort spent on it is essentially wasted.

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