useful

adjective

use·​ful ˈyüs-fəl 

1

: capable of being put to use

especially : serviceable for an end or purpose

useful tools

2

: of a valuable or productive kind

do something useful with your life

usefully

ˈyüs-fə-lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• applicable
• practical
• applied
• applicative
• useable

Examples of useful in a Sentence

Does anyone have any useful suggestions?

It can be useful to know CPR.

The Internet is useful for finding information quickly.

She has become one of the team's most useful players.

Why don't you do something useful with your life?

Recent Examples on the Web

These are much more useful for decks and outdoor cleaning, because their strength and efficiency can actually lead to interior damage. —Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 30 June 2025

This is what makes average household income so useful in this analysis of the wealthiest cities in Arkansas. —Andrew Depietro, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025

For instance, a folding utility cart with wheels might be the best option for some, while others may find an electric utility cart more useful. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2025

Which tracing paper is best? Tracing paper is useful for both those learning to sketch and those drawing freehand. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 27 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1595, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing useful

• come in useful
• come in useful/helpful
• make oneself useful
• prove (to be) useful
• useful idiot
• useful life

Kids Definition

useful

adjective

use·​ful ˈyüs-fəl 

1

: capable of being put to use : usable

useful scraps of material

2

: having practical value

a useful invention

usefully

-fə-lē 

adverb

usefulness noun