Synonyms for

Useless

Verb / ˈju:slʌs / Another word for useless — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

having no use, not helpful or effective

Synonyms & similar words

useful ineffective worthless pointless futile unproductive unusable inefficient purposeless valueless fruitless unavailing vain unhelpful unprofitable unusable unusable unsatisfactory unserviceable unusable unworkable

Synonyms by register

Formal

ineffectual unavailing fruitless impotent

Informal

lame worthless no good crappy

Literary

vain idle nugatory

Antonyms

useful helpful beneficial advantageous effective valuable practical

Common collocations

  • utterly useless
  • completely useless
  • practically useless
  • useless effort
  • useless attempt
  • useless information
  • useless person

Word family

noun uselessness
adjective useless
adverb uselessly

Usage note

While 'useless' can be used to describe objects or situations, it can be quite harsh when applied to people. Consider softer alternatives in such contexts.

Example sentences

  1. The old computer is useless.
  2. The broken pencil is useless for writing.
  3. The rusty bike is useless for riding.
  4. The empty bottle is useless for drinking.
  5. The expired milk is useless for cooking.

Quotes

  • A useless life is an early death.
  • The uselessness of the jury system is a disgrace to America.
  • A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.

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