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 Traditional cannabis and hemp cultivation remains a costly, resource-intensive process, and most cultivars express only a narrow slice of commercially useful compounds at meaningful levels. Thomas Andersen, Rolling Stone, 14 May 2026 The approach is useful against modern drone threats, especially small surveillance drones that are difficult and expensive to engage with traditional missiles. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 14 May 2026 The more useful lesson is counterintuitive. Newsweek Editors, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 May 2026 Experts say the directive could expedite studies on how psychedelic and hallucinatory drugs such as MDMA, psilocybin, LSD and ibogaine may be useful in medicine. Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 20 Apr. 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
  • Accessibility There are accessible rooms available, but getting to all parts of the resort and the beach might be difficult for wheelchair users and others who would have trouble with uneven terrain.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 May 2026
  • Rather than wasting precious vacation time ironing everything in your suitcase, do yourself a favor and check out the savings available on wrinkle-free travel clothes ahead of your next trip.
    Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 16 May 2026
Adjective
  • Things feel breezy, but that doesn’t mean staff aren’t helpful or at the ready.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 May 2026
  • Curated by Our Editors Still, most experts agree that chatbots can be helpful to people seeking medical information, if used cautiously.
    Cody Cottier, Scientific American, 15 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
  • Another critic blasted Moore and other AI defenders for treating the technology as unavoidable rather than beneficial.
    Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 14 May 2026
  • Marigolds, sunflowers, and borage boost pollination, repel aphids, and attract beneficial insects.
    Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 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 16 May. 2026.

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