it was useless vs but it was pointless

Both phrases are correct and can be used interchangeably to express that something had no purpose or was ineffective. They convey a similar meaning and can be used in various contexts to describe a situation or action that was not beneficial.

Last updated: March 21, 2024 • 1239 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used to express that something had no purpose or was ineffective.

"it was useless"

This phrase is used to describe a situation, action, or object that did not serve any useful function or achieve any desired outcome.

Examples:

The old computer was useless and needed to be replaced.
His advice was useless as it did not help solve the problem.
Trying to fix the broken vase was useless; it shattered into pieces.
The broken umbrella was useless in the heavy rain.
Her attempts to convince him were useless; he wouldn't change his mind.

Show examples from the web [+]

She tried to work, but it was useless (= she wasn't able to). 2useless (at something/at doing something) (informal) not very good at something; not able to do ...
2. pointless, hopeless, futile, vain, idle, profitless She knew it was useless to protest. pointless worthwhile, profitable. 3. (Informal) inept, no good, hopeless, weak ...
They looked at the beautiful, large, thoughtful eyes full of tears and of thoughts, gazing shiningly and imploringly at them, and understood that it was useless and ...
it is useless to do something. It was useless to complain. 2 informal unable or unwilling to do anything properly : Don't ask Tim to fix it. He's completely useless.

Alternatives:

it was ineffective
it served no purpose
it was of no use
it was futile
it was unproductive

This phrase is correct and commonly used to convey that something had no purpose or was ineffective, often used in a contrasting or explanatory context.

"but it was pointless"

This phrase is used to emphasize that a particular action, situation, or effort was without purpose or value, often in contrast to an expectation or belief.

Examples:

She tried to convince him, but it was pointless; he had already made up his mind.
The meeting was scheduled, but it was pointless as no decisions were made.
He continued to argue, but it was pointless as they would not change their stance.
The extra effort put into the project was pointless; it did not improve the outcome.
I tried to fix the leak, but it was pointless; the pipe needed to be replaced.

Show examples from the web [+]

I don't know how to move on to the next step. I've tried different ways in order to get it done, but it was pointless. I have no clue what else I should try. index.html.
But it was pointless. He was too far away, and already exhausted. He lay back horizontally in the water, letting his head rest against the inflatable pillow at the ...
Apr 27, 2014 ... ... could you explain the difference of pointless/useless and in vain to me in the following sentence? I tried to persuade her but it was pointless.
I tried to explain to him that I had worn the shorts before and that they were a gift, but it was pointless. I simply withdrew to my room, took off the shorts, and cried.

Alternatives:

but it was of no avail
but it was in vain
but it was fruitless
but it was a waste of time
but it was unproductive

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it was useless vs but it was pointless

"it was useless"

"but it was pointless"

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