ineffective

[in-i-fek-tiv] / ˌɪn ɪˈfɛk tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

useless

Synonyms

STRONGEST

feeble fruitless futile impotent inadequate incompetent indecisive ineffectual inefficient inept limited null powerless unable unproductive unprofitable unsuccessful worthless

WEAK

abortive anticlimactic barren bootless defeasible emasculate epicene feckless forceless idle inefficacious inferior innocuous inoperative lame neutralized no-go not effective nugatory paltry slack-spined spineless unavailable unavailing unfruitful vain void withered

Antonyms

STRONGEST

able adequate capable competent dexterous effective effectual efficient expert fit fruitful potent powerful productive profitable skillful strong successful sufficient useful valuable worthwhile worthy

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.

Maybe that’s true — but it doesn’t mean it’s rhetorically ineffective.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

State lawmakers passed the new measures in response to healthcare professionals who said that efforts to change a teenager’s sexual orientation were both ineffective and harmful.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

Starboard said artificial intelligence offers an opportunity to rethink workflows, reduce manual processes, enhance customer interactions, streamline decision-making, and migrate from ineffective legacy managerial systems.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

On rare occasions, the opposition may deploy a unique defensive tactic from corners and catch the attacking side off-guard, making their preparation ineffective.

From BBC • Mar. 8, 2026

They are the vehicle to challenge a conviction based on ineffective counsel, the State's failure to disclose evidence, and most important, new evidence of innocence.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

ineffective

Example Sentences

Related Words