TextRanch
The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

1. Input your text below.
2. Get it corrected in a few minutes by our editors.
3. Improve your English!

One of our experts will correct your English.

TextRanch Editors

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 • 1227 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.
  • 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.
  • 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

Related Comparisons

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

  • Emails and short texts
  • Proofreading & editing
  • Ready in 5-10 minutes
SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

  • Documents of any type (*.docx)
  • Advanced & Premium editing
  • Ready in as little as 4 hours
UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

  • Personalized answers to your language questions
  • Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
  • Ready in 24 hours
ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Powered By Humans

TextRanch Editors

AI is a great tool, but when it comes to perfecting your writing, we rely on real human editors.

  • All our editors are native English speakers.
  • Each editor has passed a rigorous admission test to ensure quality.
  • Our global team is ready to correct any text, anytime.

MEET OUR EDITORS

TextRanch Editors

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

People Feedback 4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Profile picture of Zubair from Bangladesh

Zubair
from Bangladesh From

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Profile picture of Arturo from Mexico

Arturo
from Mexico From

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Profile picture of Selena from USA

Selena
from USA From

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Profile picture of Ifiok from Nigeria

Ifiok
from Nigeria From

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Profile picture of Wilson from France

Wilson
from France From

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Profile picture of Susan from Germany

Susan
from Germany From

Trusted by Hundreds Teams

Facebook logo
Accenture logo
Air Asia logo
AirBus logo
Amazon logo
Bayer logo
Decathlon logo
Docusign logo
Ebay logo
Fiverr logo
Fossil logo
Keller Williams logo
LinkedIn logo
Loreal logo
Motorola logo
Orange logo
Roche logo
Salesforce logo
Stellantis logo