futile
Translation
pointless, useless, ineffectual
Examples
It was a futile attempt to save him.
It was a futile attempt to save him.
All our efforts proved futile.
All our efforts proved futile.
Grammar Patterns
a futile ((attempt/effort)) a pointless attempt/effort It was a futile attempt to change his mind.
Similar Words
Synonyms: useless, pointless, vain, fruitless; Antonyms: effective, useful, fruitful
Etymology
From Latin 'futilis' meaning 'leaky, worthless'.
Memory Tips
Sounds like 'few tiles'. If you only have a 'few tiles' to fix a whole roof, your effort is futile.