useless

From use +‎ -less.

• Audio (US)

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• IPA^(key): /ˈjuːs.ləs/

useless (comparative uselesser or more useless, superlative uselessest or most useless)

1. Without use or possibility to be used.

   This fork has prongs that are bent. It's useless now.

2. Unhelpful, not useful; pointless (of an action).

   I think it's useless to keep this discussion going. It's like talking to a wall.

   I tried my best to make him quit smoking, but my efforts were useless. He now smokes six packs a day.

3. (derogatory, of a person) good-for-nothing; not dependable.

   Bill never mows the lawn, takes out the trash or anything. He's useless, but I love him anyways.

4. (colloquial, of a person) unable to do well at a particular task or thing. Useless is mildly insulting.

   My brother is useless at most computer games, but he is an awesome PS2 player.

   Why do you keep trying? You're obviously useless at it.

• (good-for-nothing): good-for-nothing
• (unable to do well): unskillful

• skillful, useful

• uselessly
• uselessness