abortive
Translation
unsuccessful, failed, fruitless
Examples
It was an abortive attempt to rescue the team.
It was an abortive attempt to rescue the team.
Grammar Patterns
an abortive ((noun)) failing to produce the intended result An abortive attempt was made to change the law.
Similar Words
Synonyms: unsuccessful, failed, fruitless; Antonyms: successful, fruitful
Etymology
From Latin 'abortivus', from 'aboriri' meaning 'to miscarry'. This breaks down into 'ab-' (away) and 'oriri' (to rise, be born).
Memory Tips
Think of a mission being 'aborted' before it can succeed. It's an attempt that was cut short.