Basic Details
Word: Pointless
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that has no purpose, meaning, or use.
Synonyms: Useless, futile, meaningless
Antonyms: Useful, valuable, significant
Idioms and Phrases
- Going around in circles: This means to do something repeatedly without making any progress. Example: "We were going around in circles trying to solve that pointless puzzle."
- Beating a dead horse: This refers to trying to convince someone about something that is already settled or without any purpose. Example: "I think we should stop discussing that pointless topic; it's like beating a dead horse."
Usage Examples
Example 1: It felt pointless to argue about who would get the last piece of cake when we could just share it.
Example 2: The meeting was pointless because no decisions were made and everyone left confused.
Example 3: Reading a book that you dont enjoy can often feel pointless, but sometimes its good to try new things.
Fun Fact
The word "pointless" comes from the combination of "point," meaning purpose or goal, and the suffix "-less," which denotes absence. So, "pointless" literally means 'without a purpose or aim'!
Famous Quote
"The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision." Helen Keller. This highlights how actions can be pointless if they lack direction.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "pointless" mean?
a) Very enjoyable
b) Having a clear aim
c) Without purpose
d) Always serious
Answer: c) Without purpose
2. Which of these is a synonym of "pointless"?
a) Meaningful
b) Useless
c) Valuable
d) Important
Answer: b) Useless
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "pointless"?
a) Useless
b) Worthwhile
c) Futile
d) Meaningless
Answer: b) Worthwhile
4. Which sentence uses "pointless" correctly?
a) The movie was so pointless that I fell asleep.
b) The sun shines brightly every morning, making it pointless.
c) It was pointless to pack a lunch when the store sells food.
d) Learning is pointless if you know everything already.
Answer: a) The movie was so pointless that I fell asleep.
5. What does "beating a dead horse" mean?
a) Trying to convince someone about a settled issue
b) Caring for animals
c) Working too hard
d) Taking a break
Answer: a) Trying to convince someone about a settled issue
