What does futility mean
What does futility mean
Pronunciation
/fjuˈtɪlɪti/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A feeling or state of being useless or having no possibility of success; a situation or effort that is pointless or has no chance of success.
Examples
- The team’s efforts to score were met with futility, as they were down by 20 points.
- She felt a sense of futility when she realized she had forgotten her password.
Synonyms
- Vanity
- Futile effort
Antonyms
- Success
- Effectiveness
Additional Information
Feeling a sense of futility can be discouraging, but it can also motivate individuals to re-evaluate their approach and find new solutions. Futility can also be a natural part of the learning process, as it allows us to identify what does not work and refine our strategies.
In literature and art, futility is often used as a theme to explore the human condition, highlighting the struggles and challenges we face in life. It can also serve as a commentary on the societal pressures and expectations that can lead to feelings of futility.
Etimology
The word “futility” comes from the Latin “futilis,” meaning “useless” or “vain.”
Usage Notes
Futility can be used in a variety of contexts, from describing a failed effort to highlighting the pointlessness of a situation. It can also be used to express frustration or disappointment.
Cultural References
Futility has been explored in numerous literary works, including Albert Camus’s “The Myth of Sisyphus” and Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Futility of effort
- Exercise in futility
Related Words or Phrases
- Vain effort
Collocations
- Feel a sense of futility
- Experience futility
Frequency of Use
Futility is not a commonly used word in everyday conversation, but it appears frequently in literary and philosophical contexts.