Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/fjuːˈtɪlɪti/

Definitions

1. The quality of being futile; pointlessness or uselessness. Example: "The futility of their efforts was evident after several attempts to fix the machine failed."

2. A sense of hopelessness or the feeling that one's actions are meaningless. Example: "He struggled with the futility of life after losing his job and experiencing personal loss."

Usage Examples

• "The futility of trying to change the past led her to focus on the future instead."
• "His attempts to argue were met with futility, as no one seemed to listen."
• "The futility of the situation made everyone feel helpless and discouraged."

Etymology

The word *futility* comes from the Latin *futilis*, meaning "leaky" or "vain," which implies something that cannot hold or be effective. It was first used in the English language around the 16th century, and over time, it developed a broader meaning of pointlessness or inefficiency in human efforts.

Synonyms

• Pointlessness
• Uselessness
• Vainness
• Hopelessness
• Fruitlessness

Antonyms

• Effectiveness
• Purposefulness
• Success
• Meaning
• Productivity

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regional accents of English, the pronunciation of *futility* may slightly vary. For example, in some American English accents, the second syllable might be stressed differently, sounding more like "fyu-TIL-i-tee" rather than the standard "fyoo-TIL-i-tee." Similarly, in some British English accents, the *u* in *futility* may be more pronounced as in "fyo͞o" instead of "fyoo."

Historical Usage

Historically, the word *futility* has been a common theme in literature, especially in works focusing on existentialism, nihilism, and the human experience. Writers such as Albert Camus and Franz Kafka explored the concept of futility, depicting characters who struggle with the meaninglessness of life. The term gained more prominence in the 20th century as existential thinkers began to popularize the idea that many human actions are ultimately futile in the face of an indifferent universe.

Cultural Nuances

The idea of *futility* resonates deeply in modern society, particularly in philosophical discussions about the pursuit of happiness, wealth, and success. In certain cultures, the concept is seen as a warning against excessive materialism or an obsession with achievement. It is often explored in art, film, and literature as a reflection on the human condition. In some religious contexts, futility is a theme related to the transient nature of life and the impermanence of worldly pursuits.

More Information

The concept of futility can be explored in various philosophical contexts. For instance, existentialists view futility as an inherent part of the human condition, where efforts to find meaning often lead to despair and the recognition of life's inherent meaninglessness. Others may explore futility in a more pragmatic sense, as the unavoidable nature of failures in certain human endeavors. Despite its often negative connotations, the acknowledgment of futility can lead to a deeper understanding of human limitations and the acceptance of life’s imperfections.