Useless
/ˈjuːsləs/
Definitions
Serving no purpose; not effective or helpful.
/ˈjuːsləs/
Not able to achieve its purpose or function; not effective or efficient.
The broken umbrella was useless in the rain.
💡 Simply: Useless means it doesn't do what it's supposed to do. Like, if your phone is dead and you can't call anyone, it's useless right now!
👶 For kids: Something that is useless can't help you. Like, a toy with no batteries.
More Examples
The map was useless because it was out of date.
His advice was completely useless.
How It's Used
"The old computer is now useless."
"The investment proved to be useless and resulted in a loss."
"The medication was useless in treating his condition."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
to be of no use
To be ineffective or not helpful.
"The information was of no use to the investigation."
From Middle English *uselesse*, from Old English *uncūþ* (unknown, unfamiliar) + *lēas* (-less), influenced by French *sans* (without) and Old French *los* (profit, benefit).
Historically, the word's usage has remained consistent, though its prevalence has increased with technological and societal advancements, as applications and objects deemed 'useless' are more readily apparent.
Memory tip
Imagine a broken tool; it's useless because it can't do its job.