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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.

vainly

/ˈveɪnli/ /ˈveɪnli/

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.

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