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Definitions

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.

Hernandez is a longtime opponent of 41.18, calling it ineffective and inhumane.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

In its preliminary view, the EU found Meta had ineffective measures to enforce its own restrictions on children using Facebook and Instagram.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

Third, the War Powers Resolution, which Congress devised in response to the Vietnam War to restrict presidential discretion, has proved ineffective.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

Additional funding of up to £160m could be made available if the new tactics curb the number of crossings, though that figure may be reduced if the agreement proves to be ineffective.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

More debilitating mathematically than ineffective or insufficient education are psychological factors.

From "Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences" by John Allen Paulos

Vocabulary lists containing ineffective

Florida's B.E.S.T. Common Prefixes: in-, im-, il-, ir-

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in-

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Novel Study: Hatchet

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