vain
Translation
vain, conceited, futile, useless
Examples
He is very vain about his appearance.
He is very vain about his appearance.
It was a vain attempt to change her mind.
It was a vain attempt to change her mind.
All our efforts were in vain.
All our efforts were in vain.
Grammar Patterns
to be vain about ((sth.)) to be excessively proud of (sth.) He is vain about his looks.
in vain without success All their work was in vain.
Similar Words
Synonyms: (conceited) conceited, narcissistic; (futile) useless, pointless; Antonyms: (conceited) modest, humble
Etymology
From Latin 'vanus', meaning 'empty' or 'void'.
Memory Tips
Imagine a person who is 'vain' (conceited) looking at their reflection 'in vain' (for no purpose). The two meanings are linked by emptiness.