futile
adjective
incapable of producing any result; ineffective; useless; not successful.
futilely
-
a word derived from
futile.
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.
These include Eloise, a librarian who believes in peaceful dissent and futilely attempts to bring both sides together.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 15, 2026
The interior design may be a touch too avant-garde, but perhaps Aunt Julie was futilely trying to impress Hedda.
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 25, 2026
Fall River is one of those northern post-industrial cities that’s been futilely trying to reverse decline for decades, first by bulldozing historic neighborhoods to build highways, and now by constructing breweries and farmer’s markets.
From Salon ● Dec. 24, 2025
“Obviously, it wasn’t the start we wanted,” said Wennberg, who had a busy and frustrating night both killing penalties and trying futilely to score on the power play.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 10, 2024
With fingers weakening in the cold, Anya tugged futilely at the barbed rope on the outside.
From Anya and the Dragon by Sofiya Pasternack
