different between pointless vs ineffectual

English

Etymology

point +? -less

Pronunciation

• enPR: point?l?s, IPA^(key): /?p??ntl?s/

Adjective

pointless (comparative more pointless, superlative most pointless)

1. Having no point or sharp tip; terminating squarely or in a rounded end.

   a pointless sword

   a pointless knife

2. Having no prominent or important feature, as of an argument, discourse, etc.

   a pointless remark

   The sequel to the film was even more pointless than the original

3. Having no purpose; purposeless; unable to effect an aim.

   Since the decision has already been made, further discussion seems pointless.

4. (mathematics) Without points.

   a pointless topology

Synonyms

• (having no point or tip): blunt, dull, obtuse
• (having no purpose): needless, purposeless, redundant, superfluous
• (mathematics: without points): point-free

Antonyms

• (not sharp): pointed, sharp
• (having no purpose): useful, pointful

Derived terms

• pointlessly
• pointlessness

Translations

Further reading

• pointless in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, G. & C. Merriam, 1913.
• pointless in The Century Dictionary, New York, N.Y.: The Century Co., 1911.

English

Alternative forms

• ineffectuall (obsolete)

Etymology

in- +? effectual

Adjective

ineffectual (comparative more ineffectual, superlative most ineffectual)

1. Unable or insufficient to produce effect.

   Synonyms: futile; see also Thesaurus:futile

   • 1865, Henry David Thoreau, Cape Cod, Chapter II. "Stage-coach Views", page 16.

     This coach was an exceedingly narrow one, but as there was a slight spherical excess over two on a seat, the driver waited till nine passengers had got in, without taking the measure of any of them, and then shut the door after two or three ineffectual slams, as if the fault were all in the hinges or the latch,—while we timed our inspirations and expirations so as to assist him.

2. Worthless.
3. Weak, indecisive; lacking forcefulness.

Antonyms

• effectual

Related terms

• ineffectualness
• ineffectuality
• ineffectually

Translations