To little/no purpose

usgb
phrase

With no effective result; in vain.

She tried to convince them to reform, but it was to little purpose.
Visual representation of "to little/no purpose" - With no effective result; in vain.

Often appears as...

  • worked to little purpose
  • tried to little purpose
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "to little/no purpose"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Effort Wasted

Used to express efforts that fail to achieve their intended result.

Illustration for Effort Wasted
He studied all night to little purpose, since the exam was postponed.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Subtle Negativity

Implies disappointment or disillusionment with the outcome.

Illustration for Subtle Negativity
Their negotiations continued to little purpose.
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Not Always Literal

Sometimes used figuratively to express futility, not just physically doing something.

Illustration for Not Always Literal
Arguing about the past is to little purpose.
Visual representation of the word "To little/no purpose"

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