Vainly: meaning, definitions and examples
๐โโ๏ธ
vainly
[หveษชnli ]
Definitions
in a futile manner
In a way that is not yielding the desired outcome; without success or effectiveness. It implies a sense of wasted effort or pointless endeavor.
Synonyms
fruitlessly, ineffectively, unsuccessfully.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| vainly |
Repeated from earlier in the list, already explained.
|
| fruitlessly |
Describes attempts that yield no positive outcome, similar to 'vainly' but often with more emphasis on the lack of productive results.
|
| unsuccessfully |
Refers to circumstances where a planned or desired outcome was not achieved, typically without negative emotional weight.
|
| ineffectively |
Indicates actions or methods that are not effective or do not produce the right results, usually focusing on the poor quality or efficiency of the attempt.
|
Examples of usage
- She tried vainly to open the locked door.
- He searched vainly for his lost keys.
- The dog barked vainly at the passing cars.
having an excessively high opinion of oneself
Excessively proud of one's own appearance, abilities, achievements, etc., often to the point of arrogance. It implies an exaggerated sense of self-importance.
Synonyms
conceited, egotistical, self-centered.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| vainly |
Used when someone does something without success, often with a sense of wasted effort.
|
| conceited |
Describes someone who has an excessively high opinion of themselves, often coming across as arrogant.
|
| egotistical |
Refers to someone overly focused on their own importance, often disregarding others.
|
| self-centered |
Indicates someone who is mostly concerned with themselves and their own needs, often ignoring others.
|
Examples of usage
- He was criticized for his vain attempts to impress others.
- She was so vain that she spent hours in front of the mirror.
- The actor was known for his vain personality.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from Old French 'van', meaning 'empty', which reflects the idea of doing something without true purpose or value.
- Related words include 'vanity', which also signifies excessive pride or self-admiration and its focus on appearances.
- In Middle English, 'vanish' relates to the idea of disappearing or being without substance, connecting to how vain efforts often lead to nothing.
Psychology
- Studies show that excessive focus on self-image can lead to negative mental health outcomes, highlighting the pitfalls of being vain.
- The concept of 'narcissism' identifies behaviors associated with high self-regard, which can result in vain efforts within personal relationships.
- Cognitive biases may drive individuals to pursue vain goals, where they believe they will succeed despite evidence to the contrary.
Literature
- Shakespeare used the term 'vain' in several works, often to describe pursuits that led to tragic flaws in characters, like in 'Macbeth'.
- In 'Pride and Prejudice', vanity plays a crucial role in misunderstandings between characters, demonstrating the social consequences of vain behavior.
- Romantic poetry often highlights vain pursuits, showing characters striving for unattainable beauty or love, which reflects a deeper yearning.
Pop Culture
- Songs about vanity often criticize superficial relationships, like 'Vanity' by Prince, which explores themes of shallow love and self-obsession.
- Reality TV shows frequently depict vain behaviors, showcasing contestants who prioritize appearance and attention over genuine connections.
- Social media platforms have fueled a culture of vanity, where users often seek validation through likes and followers, leading to feelings of emptiness.
Translations
Translations of the word "vainly" in other languages:
๐ต๐น em vรฃo
๐ฎ๐ณ เคตเฅเคฏเคฐเฅเคฅ
๐ฉ๐ช vergeblich
๐ฎ๐ฉ sia-sia
๐บ๐ฆ ะดะฐัะตะผะฝะพ
๐ต๐ฑ na prรณลผno
๐ฏ๐ต ็ก้งใซ
๐ซ๐ท en vain
๐ช๐ธ en vano
๐น๐ท boลuna
๐ฐ๐ท ํ๋์ด
๐ธ๐ฆ ุนุจุซูุง
๐จ๐ฟ marnฤ
๐ธ๐ฐ mรกrne
๐จ๐ณ ๅพๅณ
๐ธ๐ฎ zamanj
๐ฎ๐ธ til einskis
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฑะตะบะตั
๐ฌ๐ช แฃแจแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ beyhude
๐ฒ๐ฝ en vano