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Worthlessness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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worthlessness

[ˈwɜːθləsnəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

feeling of being without value

The state or quality of having no real value or use; the feeling of being useless or unimportant.

Synonyms

futility, inanity, uselessness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
worthlessness

This word carries a strong negative connotation when referring to a lack of worth or value, often used in a personal or emotional context.

  • His feelings of worthlessness grew after repeated failures
futility

This word is used to express the pointlessness or ineffectiveness of an action or effort.

  • The futility of trying to change his mind was evident
uselessness

This word describes a state where an object or action serves no purpose or function.

  • She realized the uselessness of the broken tool when trying to fix the car
inanity

Use this word to describe something that is silly, meaningless, or lacks substance.

  • The conversation devolved into inanity, with no important topics being discussed

Examples of usage

  • I was consumed by a sense of worthlessness after losing my job.
  • He was overwhelmed by feelings of worthlessness and self-doubt.
  • She struggled with feelings of worthlessness throughout her teenage years.
Context #2 | Noun

lack of significance

The state of lacking importance or significance; insignificance.

Synonyms

insignificance, triviality, unimportance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
worthlessness

Utilize this term when discussing the complete lack of value or merit in someone or something. It often conveys a strong negative connotation, suggesting something is utterly without value.

  • He felt a deep sense of worthlessness after losing his job.
  • The broken vase was deemed to be of worthlessness and thrown away.
insignificance

This word is used when referring to the small or minor importance of something. It implies that something is not substantial enough to make a difference or impact.

  • In the grand scheme of things, his actions seemed like mere insignificance.
  • The error in the report was of such insignificance that it was barely noticed.
unimportance

This is appropriate when pointing out that something lacks significance or relevance. It is slightly less negative than 'worthlessness' and more neutral than 'insignificance'.

  • The document was of unimportance to the case, so it was not included in the evidence.
  • His opinion was often regarded with unimportance by the senior staff.
triviality

Best suited for situations where something is considered very minor or commonplace, often to the point of being unworthy of serious consideration.

  • She dismissed the remark as a triviality and moved on with the discussion.
  • The meeting was filled with discussions about the trivialities of office life.

Examples of usage

  • The worthlessness of his arguments was evident to all.
  • His actions demonstrated the worthlessness of his promises.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Feelings of worthlessness can often be a symptom of depression, affecting how individuals view themselves and their capabilities.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to counter feelings of worthlessness by helping individuals reframe negative thoughts.
  • Low self-esteem can stem from childhood experiences, leading to a lasting impression of worthlessness into adulthood.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like existentialists discuss worthlessness in the context of human existence, suggesting that individuals must create their own meaning.
  • The concept of nihilism also relates to worthlessness, proposing that life lacks inherent value or truth.
  • Debates on moral worth examine how societal values determine what is considered 'worthless' versus 'valuable.'

Literature

  • In many classic novels, characters often struggle with feelings of worthlessness, leading to significant character development and conflict.
  • Existential themes in literature frequently explore characters wrestling with their own perceived lack of worth.
  • Poets and authors have used the motif of worthlessness to express deeper emotions and societal critiques.

Sociology

  • Social media can contribute to feelings of worthlessness, as individuals often compare themselves to curated representations of others.
  • Marginalized groups may experience systemic issues that perpetuate feelings of worthlessness in society due to discrimination.
  • Cultural perceptions of success and worth vary globally, meaning that what is deemed 'worthless' in one culture may be highly valued in another.

Economics

  • In economic terms, worthlessness can apply to assets that have depreciated in value or lost their usefulness.
  • Market fluctuations can render certain products or investments worthless, impacting individuals' perceptions of financial worth.
  • The concept of 'commodity fetishism' in economics examines how products can become valued less for their use and more for perceived worth.

Origin of 'worthlessness'

The word 'worthlessness' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the combination of 'worth' and the suffix '-less', meaning without. It has been used to describe the state of lacking value or significance throughout history, often associated with feelings of inadequacy or unimportance.

See also: unworthily, unworthy, worth, worthiness, worthless, worthwhile, worthy.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,613, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.