Definition of usefulnext
1
2
as in available
capable of or suitable for being used for a particular purpose I've found this tool really useful for making sure all my pictures are hung straight

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

3
as in helpful
providing service or assistance hopefully, the consultant's financial advice will prove useful in planning for our retirement

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of useful The one place that tariffs might be useful would be to extend the carbon tax to incoming goods, so that foreign polluters would not have an incentive to pollute heavily (for instance, steel smelted with coal power). Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2026 The technology could prove particularly useful in industries where direct testing is difficult or unsafe. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 7 May 2026 The company said the solution is especially useful for high‑mix operations facing labor shortages, with automation capable of replacing up to 10 operators per shift. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 7 May 2026 The plants would be particularly useful for meeting peak demand in the winter months, when solar and batteries are not as effective. Angela Palermo may 7, Idaho Statesman, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for useful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for useful
Adjective
  • Wellness initiatives—which are covered by health insurance, when applicable—to improve nutrition and exercise and that teach skills around stress management and sleep will be key to helping women manage their menopause symptoms more effectively.
    Shirley Velasquez, Flow Space, 11 May 2026
  • Both groups’ standards include conserving water, wildlife and biodiversity as well as compliance with applicable forestry laws to keep ecosystems healthy.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 May 2026
Adjective
  • With the additions of Vanloo and New York native Aubrey Griffin, DeMarco had only nine players available.
    Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News, 9 May 2026
  • The non-profit pays its founder and CEO, Leah Binder, $669,000 that year, the most recent for which public records are available.
    Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 9 May 2026
Adjective
  • The Moon in Aquarius moves through your 6th House and trines Venus in Gemini, making routines and helpful exchanges flow smoothly.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 9 May 2026
  • While apps can sometimes be helpful for identifying very basic issues, many fail to accurately diagnose complex pest infestations and nutrient deficiencies.
    Jamie Siebrase, Denver Post, 8 May 2026
Adjective
  • Capricorn December 22 – January 19 A sharp conversation could unlock practical momentum surprisingly fast today.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 12 May 2026
  • What begins as one practical step could raise your profile significantly.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 May 2026
Adjective
  • Additionally, Amazon has its own line of fashion brands, including Amazon Essentials, which target budget-conscious shoppers looking for functional clothing staples like shirts, pants, and shoes.
    Roy Stephen Canivel, Footwear News, 11 May 2026
  • Renovating with future needs in mind ensures your home remains safe, comfortable, and functional as you age.
    Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 11 May 2026
Adjective
  • The park said tipsters may remain anonymous, though officials noted that sharing information could be beneficial to National Park Service investigators.
    Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 7 May 2026
  • The messaging has remained constant, and it’s proven beneficial to all parties involved.
    Jaylon Thompson May 7, Kansas City Star, 7 May 2026
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, New York’s share of national creative jobs has declined across key industries, including film and television, advertising, music production, performing arts, and applied design.
    Lola W. Brabham, New York Daily News, 6 May 2026
  • Fall spent nearly four years as vice president for applied sciences at technology research nonprofit MITRE.
    Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 6 May 2026
Adjective
  • This vaccine also is only for patients whose tumors are operable.
    Chicago Tribune, Twin Cities, 30 Apr. 2026
  • This vaccine also is only for patients whose tumors are operable.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Useful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/useful. Accessed 14 May. 2026.

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