erfolglos
Translation
unsuccessful, fruitless, futile
Examples
Nach einem erfolglosen Versuch gab er auf.
After an unsuccessful attempt, he gave up.
Die Suche blieb leider erfolglos.
Unfortunately, the search remained unsuccessful.
Grammar Patterns
as a predicative adjective: ...is unsuccessful The mission was unsuccessful.
as an attributive adjective: an unsuccessful... an unsuccessful artist.
Similar Words
Synonyms: fruitless, futile, in vain; Antonyms: successful, victorious
Etymology
Composed of 'Erfolg' (success) + the suffix '-los' (-less). It literally means 'success-less'.
Memory Tips
This is a very direct compound word. If you know 'Erfolg' (success) and '-los' (-less), it's easy to remember: without success.