Futilely describes an action performed in a manner that is completely ineffective or without any chance of success. It suggests a wasted effort, an attempt that is ultimately pointless or unproductive. The adverb emphasizes the inherent lack of outcome or achievement. This often implies a sense of frustration or disappointment, as the actor recognizes or should recognize the inevitable failure of their endeavors. The context almost always involves some awareness (or foreshadowing) that the task is doomed to fail, highlighting the lack of purpose in the actions and the inability to effect change. It signifies an action carried out with a foregone conclusion of zero impact.
Futilely meaning with examples
- The detective, suspecting a cover-up, began questioning witnesses about the incident, but he futilely focused on the wrong set of facts. The answers consistently contradicted his assumptions, but his line of questioning was so misguided that he obtained no useful information about the real truth, further obstructing his investigations.
- The stranded hikers, exhausted and with dwindling supplies, futilely sent up smoke signals hoping a plane might notice. The dense forest canopy and the poor visibility rendered their efforts useless, and they knew their attempts at attracting attention were likely doomed.
- The artist, experiencing creative block, futilely tried to paint the subject, but she could not seem to capture her vision. She struggled with technique, constantly erasing and redoing, and the resulting work felt lifeless and uninspired and offered nothing unique.
- The company, facing bankruptcy, futilely launched a new advertising campaign. Despite the expensive ads and public relations blitz, the underlying financial problems were too severe to overcome, and sales continued to plummet.
- The politician, attempting to appease opposing factions, futilely tried to negotiate a compromise. Their positions were too far apart, and despite numerous meetings and concessions, they could not find common ground, resulting in a gridlock.
Futilely Synonyms
abortively fruitlessly impractically in vain ineffectively pointlessly unsuccessfully uselessly vainly worthlesslyFutilely Antonyms
effectively productively profitably successfully usefullyFutilely Crossword Answers
6 Letters
VAINLY INVAIN
9 Letters
USELESSLY
11 Letters
SENSELESSLY