in vain
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"When I'm working, I tell myself that those souls did not die in vain."
From Barron's • Jun. 6, 2026
“To know that it may all have been in vain is heartbreaking,” Mbara said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026
At the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence, the staff tried in vain to save the program.
From Salon • Mar. 11, 2026
The last few hours were all in vain.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026
“No sight of misery disturbs us, nor of despairing poverty out in vain search for employment.... We work our eight hours a day in peaceful security and in absolute confidence of our pay.”
From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson
