Useless: meaning, definitions and examples

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useless

[ˈjuːslɪs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in describing something

Not fulfilling or not expected to achieve the intended purpose or desired outcome.

Synonyms

futile, ineffective, pointless, unproductive, worthless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
useless	This word is used to describe something that has no value or functionality in a given situation. The instructions were useless, and we couldn't assemble the furniture Trying to reason with him is completely useless
futile	Often used in formal contexts, it describes efforts that cannot achieve the desired result, signaling a sense of hopelessness. It was futile to argue with him; he had already made up his mind Trying to stop the rain with an umbrella seemed futile
ineffective	Refers to something that fails to produce the intended effect or outcome. The new software was ineffective in solving the problem Their training methods proved to be ineffective for the team's improvement
pointless	Used for actions or objects that lack purpose or sense, often carrying a slightly negative tone. Watching that movie was pointless; it had no plot It feels pointless to keep trying if no one appreciates the effort
worthless	Says that something has no value, either monetarily or in terms of usefulness. Often a strong, negative term. The broken watch is worthless He felt worthless after his ideas were rejected by the team
unproductive	Typically used in professional or work-related contexts to indicate a lack of results or achievement. The meeting was unproductive and wasted everyone's time Spending hours on social media can be very unproductive

Examples of usage

It's useless to argue with him.
She felt useless sitting at home all day.
The old computer is now useless and needs to be replaced.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in describing a person

Lacking in ability or skill; incompetent.

Synonyms

incapable, incompetent, ineffective, inept, unskilled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
useless	Used when something or someone has no value or purpose in a particular situation. This old phone is completely useless now. I felt useless when I couldn't help my friend.
incompetent	Describes someone who lacks the necessary skills or ability to do their job properly; often has a negative connotation. The manager was fired for being incompetent. His incompetent handling of the project led to its failure.
inept	Describes someone who is clumsy or unskilled in a particular activity; usually negative and implies awkwardness or lack of grace. His inept performance at the meeting embarrassed everyone. She made an inept attempt to fix the car.
unskilled	Describes someone who lacks training or expertise in a specific area. Many unskilled workers are looking for jobs. He's unskilled in using advanced software.
ineffective	Used when something doesn't produce the desired result or outcome. The new policy proved to be ineffective. This medicine is ineffective against the virus.
incapable	Refers to someone or something that lacks the ability to do something. The team seemed incapable of winning the match. He is incapable of lying.

Examples of usage

He was criticized for being a useless manager.
She felt useless in the new job.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'useless' comes from the Old French 'useles', which means 'not useful'.
The root 'us' in Latin means 'to use', so 'useless' indicates something that cannot be used.
It has been in the English language since the late 14th century, evolving in meaning over time.

Psychology

Feeling useless can lead to low self-esteem, often triggering negative emotions and thoughts.
Studies have shown that people who perceive themselves as useless may also struggle with anxiety and depression.
In contrast, finding purpose or utility in activities can significantly boost mental health and well-being.

Pop Culture

In movies and television, characters often face moments of feeling useless, highlighting their personal growth when they find their worth.
Songs often explore themes of feeling useless or unappreciated, resonating with listeners who have faced similar feelings.
Social media sometimes amplifies feelings of uselessness through comparison, making many feel inadequate.

Literature

Classic literature often features characters who feel useless, leading them on journeys of self-discovery and redemption.
Writers use the theme of uselessness to critique society, revealing how certain individuals or groups are marginalized and ignored.
Novels and poetry frequently explore the contrast between the mundane and the meaningful, often highlighting the struggle with feeling useless.

Technology

In technology, obsolete gadgets are often deemed useless as newer models offer better functionality.
The concept of 'digital clutter' relates to files or apps on devices that serve no useful purpose but take up space.
Some programming languages include libraries that may become useless as technology evolves, requiring regular updates to maintain relevance.

Translations

Translations of the word "useless" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inútil

🇮🇳 बेकार

🇩🇪 nutzlos

🇮🇩 tidak berguna

🇺🇦 марний

🇵🇱 bezużyteczny

🇯🇵 役に立たない (yakunitatanai)

🇫🇷 inutile

🇪🇸 inútil

🇹🇷 kullanışsız

🇰🇷 쓸모없는 (sseulmo-eomneun)

🇸🇦 غير مفيد

🇨🇿 neužitečný

🇸🇰 neužitočný

🇨🇳 无用的 (wúyòng de)

🇸🇮 neuporaben

🇮🇸 ónýtur

🇰🇿 пайдасыз

🇬🇪 უსარგებლო (usargeblo)

🇦🇿 faydasız

🇲🇽 inútil

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,612, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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4609 riding
4610 giant
4611 rental
4612 useless
4613 activation
4614 locally
4615 appealed
...