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Futility Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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futility

[fjuหˆtษชlษชti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

senselessness

The quality of having no practical result or effect; uselessness. Futility is often associated with a feeling of hopelessness and despair, as one realizes the pointlessness of their efforts.

Synonyms

ineffectiveness, pointlessness, uselessness.

Examples of usage

  • The futility of trying to change the outcome became apparent.
  • She felt overwhelmed by the futility of the situation.
  • Despite their best efforts, they could not escape the futility of their actions.
Context #2 | Noun

vain

The quality of being futile or in vain; lack of success or effectiveness. Futility can also refer to something that is doomed to fail or has little chance of success.

Synonyms

failure, fruitlessness, ineffectiveness.

Examples of usage

  • His attempts to convince her were met with futility.
  • The futility of their mission became clear as they faced insurmountable obstacles.
  • She realized the futility of arguing with him.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Futility is a key theme in many literary works, often reflecting the struggle of characters against an indifferent universe.
  • In Samuel Beckett's play 'Waiting for Godot', the concept illustrates the absurdity of waiting for meaning in life, challenging readersโ€™ expectations of purpose.

Philosophy

  • Philosophical discussions of futility often raise questions about the purpose of human existence and the search for meaning in a seemingly chaotic world.
  • Existentialists like Albert Camus explore the futility of life, suggesting that individuals must create their own meaning despite absurdity.

Psychology

  • Feelings of futility can lead to a sense of helplessness, impacting mental health; itโ€™s important to address these feelings through supportive conversations.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) often tackles thoughts of futility by encouraging individuals to recognize and challenge their beliefs about effort and outcome.

Pop Culture

  • Futility often appears in music lyrics, conveying deep emotional struggles and societal disillusionment, as seen in songs like 'Creep' by Radiohead.
  • Films like 'Groundhog Day' present characters grappling with futility, emphasizing the monotony and repetitiveness of their actions.

Origin of 'futility'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'futilis', meaning 'leaky' or 'worthless', originally relating to something that cannot hold, much like efforts that lead to no outcome.
  • It entered the English language during the late 15th century, capturing the essence of hopelessness in endeavors.

The word 'futility' originated from the Latin word 'futilis', meaning 'vain' or 'useless'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century, with its current meaning of having no practical result or effect. Over time, 'futility' has come to represent a sense of hopelessness and despair when faced with situations or efforts that seem pointless or doomed to fail.

See also: futile, futilely.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,786, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.