Vainly - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Vainly means attempting something without success or in a futile manner. It often describes efforts that are pointless or ineffective, emphasizing wasted time or energy. Example: He searched vainly for his lost keys.
Definition:
Without success or result; in a futile or pointless manner.
Synonyms:
fruitlessly, unsuccessfully, uselessly, ineffectively
Part of Speech:
adverb
Antonyms:
successfully, effectively, fruitfully
Common Collocations:
try vainly, search vainly, struggle vainly, wait vainly
Derivatives:
vain, vanity, vainness
Usage Tips:
Use "vainly" to describe actions done without achieving the desired outcome; often implies wasted effort.
Common Phrases:
in vain, vain attempt, vain hope
Etymology:
From Old French "vain," meaning "empty" or "worthless," combined with the adverbial suffix "-ly."
Examples:
- 1. She searched vainly for her lost keys in the dark room.
- 2. He tried vainly to convince his boss to give him a raise.
- 3. They waited vainly for the bus that never arrived.
- 4. The dog barked vainly at the squirrel high in the tree.