Uselessly: meaning, definitions and examples

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uselessly

[ˈjuːsləsli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a pointless manner

In a way that is not useful or effective; in a manner that does not achieve a desired result.

Synonyms

futilely, ineffectively, pointlessly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
uselessly	When something is done in a manner that has no benefit or value at all. He tried uselessly to fix the broken watch. She screamed uselessly into the void.
pointlessly	When an action is done without purpose or meaning, often implying a sense of frustration or redundancy. He wandered pointlessly through the streets. They argued pointlessly over a minor issue.
ineffectively	When an action is done without achieving the desired outcome due to lack of proper execution or method. The medication was administered ineffectively, so the patient didn't recover. The team worked ineffectively on the project, resulting in many errors.
futilely	When an effort is made that is destined to fail and is without any hope of success, often with a sense of despair. They futilely attempted to save the drowning man. He ran futilely after the bus, knowing it wouldn't stop.

Examples of usage

He was pacing uselessly around the room, unable to find his lost keys.
She was staring uselessly at the computer screen, hoping for inspiration to strike.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in a manner lacking purpose

In a manner that lacks purpose or meaning; in a way that does not serve a useful function.

Synonyms

meaninglessly, purposelessly, unproductively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
uselessly	Mentioned twice; see the first entry above. The information was uselessly repeated in the report
purposelessly	Describes actions or behaviors that lack direction or intention. He walked purposelessly around the park, unsure of what to do next
meaninglessly	Used when describing something that lacks significance or importance. She rambled meaninglessly about her day
unproductively	Refers to actions that do not result in any valuable outcome or progress. They spent the afternoon chatting unproductively instead of working

Examples of usage

He spent the whole day uselessly browsing the internet instead of working on his project.
They argued uselessly about trivial matters, without reaching any resolution.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word combines 'useless,' meaning not useful, with the suffix '-ly,' which turns adjectives into adverbs.
The root 'use' comes from Latin 'uti,' which means to use or employ something.
The word has been used since the 14th century, reflecting its long-standing presence in the English language.

Psychology

Feelings of uselessness can lead to lower self-esteem and feelings of depression.
Studies show that people often evaluate their actions based on perceived productivity, with negative effects when they feel they’re acting uselessly.
The concept is linked to the idea of 'learned helplessness,' where individuals believe they have no control over outcomes, leading to inaction.

Literature

Useless actions often serve as a critical commentary in literature, reflecting the futility of existence as seen in existentialist works.
Classic characters frequently grapple with feelings of uselessness, prompting deep self-reflection and character development.
In many stories, actions deemed 'useless' can lead to unexpected consequences, revealing deeper truths about life.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'useless but entertaining' popularized the idea of engaging in activities that don’t contribute to productivity but provide joy.
Popular memes often humorously depict situations where characters act 'uselessly' despite their best intentions.
Television shows like 'The Office' frequently showcase characters engaging in absurd, pointless tasks, highlighting the humor in useless behavior.

Philosophy

Various philosophical schools debate utility and purpose, often questioning what makes actions meaningful versus useless.
Existentialism posits that searching for meaning can highlight feelings of acting uselessly in a chaotic world.
The idea of a 'life without purpose' is a recurring theme in philosophical discussions about human existence.

Translations

Translations of the word "uselessly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inutilmente

🇮🇳 बेकार में

🇩🇪 nutzlos

🇮🇩 sia-sia

🇺🇦 даремно

🇵🇱 bezużytecznie

🇯🇵 無駄に

🇫🇷 inutilement

🇪🇸 inútilmente

🇹🇷 boşuna

🇰🇷 쓸모없이

🇸🇦 بلا فائدة

🇨🇿 zbytečně

🇸🇰 zbytočne

🇨🇳 无用地

🇸🇮 neuporabno

🇮🇸 ónýt

🇰🇿 пайдасыз

🇬🇪 უვარგისად

🇦🇿 faydasızca

🇲🇽 inútilmente

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,849, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
26846 archiving
26847 monosyllabic
26848 monolith
26849 uselessly
26850 catchers
26851 shackle
26852 cloistered
...