ineffectual

adjective

in·​ef·​fec·​tu·​al ˌi-nə-ˈfek-chə(-wə)l 

-ˈfeksh-wəl

1

: not producing the proper or intended effect : futile

2

: ineffective sense 2

ineffectuality

ˌi-nə-ˌfek-chə-ˈwa-lə-tē 

noun

ineffectually

ˌi-nə-ˈfek-chə(-wə)-lē 

-ˈfek-shwə-

adverb

ineffectualness noun

Synonyms

• counterproductive
• feckless
• hamstrung
• ineffective
• inefficacious
• inefficient
• inexpedient

Examples of ineffectual in a Sentence

an ineffectual effort to find the trail again did at least lead them to another stunning view of the canyon

another ineffectual plan to lose weight without dieting or exercising

Recent Examples on the Web

In the eyes of many voters, the present leaders of the Democratic Party are seen as being weak and ineffectual, both nationally and internationally. —Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 12 July 2024

Biden’s ineffectual or totally absent responses also allowed racist remarks from his opponent to go unchallenged. —Lorraine Ali, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2024

Kane, considered one of best players in the world, was taken off in the second half after an ineffectual performance following his goal. —Ben Church, CNN, 20 June 2024

Sounds like something Logan Roy would say to his ineffectual sons in the middle of a hostile takeover. —Zoe Guy, Vulture, 30 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

ineffectual

adjective

in·​ef·​fec·​tu·​al ˌin-ə-ˈfek-chə(-wə)l 

-ˈfeksh-wəl

1

: not producing the proper or usual effect

an ineffectual attempt

2

: ineffective sense 2

ineffectually

-ˈfek-chə(-wə)-lē 

-ˈfeksh-wə-

adverb

ineffectualness noun