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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 • 1065 views

it was useless

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

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.
  • 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

but it was pointless

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.

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.
  • 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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