futile
/ˈfjuː.taɪl/
Group 13Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Incapable of producing any useful result; pointless GRE
Example in Context
After months of futile negotiations, both sides acknowledged that a diplomatic solution was beyond reach and prepared for the consequences.
Synonyms
uselesspointlesshopeless
Etymology
From Latin meaning leaky or worthless—pointless efforts.
- futilis (Latin) — leaky
Memory Aid
🚧Sounds like “few tile”
Trying to build a house with a FEW TILE pieces — it’s utterly FUTILE!
Visual Association
🗑️A person digging a hole in the sand only to watch it collapse back in—completely pointless.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “futile” mean on the GRE?
futile (adjective) means “Incapable of producing any useful result; pointless”. After months of futile negotiations, both sides acknowledged that a diplomatic solution was beyond reach and prepared for the consequences.
How to remember “futile” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “futile” sounds like “few tile”. Trying to build a house with a FEW TILE pieces — it’s utterly FUTILE!
What are synonyms for “futile”?
Common synonyms: useless, pointless, hopeless.