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 Broad claims about growth are less useful without numbers, context, and a clear explanation of what changed. Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 28 May 2026 For a team that scored just seven runs in the final five games of a 3-6 home stand, the contrast in opponents will serve as a useful measuring stick. Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 May 2026 This kind of tool is particularly useful in an era when brands are being asked to produce more content across more surfaces, whilst maintaining consistency and control. Moin Roberts-Islam, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026 The content in those lessons is as accurate and useful as ever. Jill Duffy, PC Magazine, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for useful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for useful
Adjective
  • Accessibility The main resort is mainly step-free access, and all villas can be modified for wheelchair accessibility with ramps put in place of steps where applicable.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 June 2026
  • This meant that they were neither governed nor protected by any applicable law.
    Bozorgmehr Sharafedin, The Atlantic, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • Going tomorrow, everyone’s available.
    Jose de Jesus Ortiz, Los Angeles Times, 30 May 2026
  • Catcher Logan O’Hoppe didn’t challenge, even though the Angels had both of their challenges available.
    Jeff Fletcher, Oc Register, 30 May 2026
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, relations with those who are closest to you are warm and helpful.
    Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 30 May 2026
  • Severe Pruning Pruning tomato plants can be helpful in promoting air flow and fruit production, but removing too many leaves at one time can cause the plant to protect its remaining leaves by curling them in response.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • Kids can enjoy welcome milk and cookies, along with a variety of in-room amenities, such as toys and board games, kid-sized robes and slippers, and practical items like cribs, high chairs, bottle warmers, and diapers.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • Josh, who wants to be an investigative journalist, is an idealist in a PBS T-shirt (and with a PBS tote bag) who gets by on family money and is incapable of taking care of himself in any practical way.
    Television Critic, Los Angeles Times, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • Rooms lean into the brand’s signature high-energy aesthetic while remaining extremely functional.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • In a market often dominated by functional and visually repetitive offerings, Ground Up has cultivated a distinct white space opportunity by bringing an unexpected sense of fun, personality and optimism to the floor.
    Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 1 June 2026
Adjective
  • Wearables can absolutely be beneficial for the right patients, and even life-saving.
    David Oliver, USA Today, 4 June 2026
  • According to Merrick, kratom has always been a big draw for Elixart’s customer base, offering them the opportunity to enjoy a beneficial beverage in a social environment, without alcohol.
    Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • After finishing her schooling at Exarch Joseph I in Lovech, Karabash earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Veliko Tarnovo in applied linguistics with English and French.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 May 2026
  • 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
Adjective
  • The livestreams are only operable during business hours.
    Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 1 June 2026
  • This vaccine also is only for patients whose tumors are operable.
    Chicago Tribune, Twin Cities, 30 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Useful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/useful. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.

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