vainly

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.

Even as he struggles vainly in Ukraine, Mr. Putin has been forced to watch the decline of Russian influence in Europe.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

England found some late urgency as they vainly chased the game.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

I soon learned that it’s impossible to tug on the “ropes” of sails with just the tips of my fingers to vainly try to protect my fresh mani.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 8, 2025

It is not to dash all our energy against a wave that’s not yet spent, trying vainly to roll it back to yesterday.

From Salon • May 1, 2025

He seemed in no hurry to go elsewhere or to talk, and as the slow-motion bartender mixed our drinks I puzzled vainly as to why he had brought me here.

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison