Useless

Definition

Useless describes something that is not fulfilling or not expected to achieve its intended purpose.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈjusləs/
• Respelling: YOO-sluhs (with "YOO" as in "you" and "sluhs" rhyming with "fuss")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈjuːsləs/
• Respelling: YOO-sluhs (similar to American English, with "YOO" as in "you" and "sluhs" rhyming with "fuss")

In both dialects, "useless" is pronounced similarly, with a long "u" sound as in "you" followed by "sluhs." The primary difference might be in the subtle nuances of the vowel sounds, particularly the length of the "u" sound, which can be slightly longer in British English.

Etymology

The term "useless" is formed by combining "use", derived from the Old English "usian", meaning "to employ or use", and the suffix "-less", from Old English "lēas", meaning "without". Together, they signify "without use" or "without function".

Derivatives

• Uselessly
• Uselessness
• Disuse
• Reuse
• Misuse

Synonyms

• Futile
• Ineffectual
• Pointless

Antonyms

• Useful
• Effective
• Beneficial

Usage

• "The broken pencil is useless for writing."
• "His attempts to fix the situation were useless."

Related Terms

• Use
• Usability
• User

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Having No Practical Use or Value: Refers to something that cannot be used for its intended purpose.
• Example: The old machinery was deemed useless due to its deteriorating condition.

• Incapable or Inefficient: Describes a person or thing that cannot produce the desired effect or result.
• Example: She found his excuses useless and unconvincing.

• Futile; Producing No Result: Indicates efforts or endeavors that don't lead to any productive outcome.
• Example: All attempts to persuade him were useless.