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Definitions
Trivia Time
Which fictional collective is known for the phrase "Resistance is futile?"

futile

[fyoot-l, fyoo-tahyl] / ˈfjut l, ˈfju taɪl /


Example Sentences

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Lying on the ground and kicking up a cloud of dust, the elephant slowly exhausted himself in futile attempts to stand, the latest potential victim of a still-mysterious ailment in southern Kenya.

From Barron's Aug. 13, 2026

Hearing the futile spinning of tires, neighbors came out en masse to figure out how to solve the problem.

From Slate Jul. 27, 2026

Then again, it would be largely futile for publicly held banks to stop filing quarterly reports with the SEC.

From The Wall Street Journal Jul. 26, 2026

His determination may be admirable, but the sheer, futile arrogance of such a display backfires in equally spectacular fashion.

From Salon Jul. 18, 2026

The Sunday after the futile dusting, Mr. Randolph surprised everyone by refusing seconds.

From "The Great Gilly Hopkins" by Katherine Paterson




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