Translation guide
How to express that something is useless, futile, or of no use in Japanese, depending on the nuance.
Describing an action, effort, or thing that does not produce the desired result or is pointless.
The most common and versatile word for 'useless' or 'futile'. Can describe wasted effort, useless things, or pointless actions.
It's useless to do that.
It was a useless effort.
Literally 'does not stand in a role', meaning 'useless' in the sense of not being helpful or functional.
This tool is completely useless.
Means 'meaningless' or 'pointless'. Often used for abstract things like arguments or efforts.
Such an argument is useless/pointless.
Describing a person, object, or information that has no worth or utility.
Directly means 'has no value'. Used for objects, information, or people.
This information is useless.
Means 'not fit for use', 'unusable'. Often for broken or defective items.
This computer is useless now.
A noun meaning 'good-for-nothing' or 'useless person/thing'. Can be insulting when referring to people.
Describing a person who is incapable or ineffective.
Describing a situation or person that cannot be improved or saved.
無駄 emphasizes futility or waste, while 役に立たない focuses on lack of practical utility. 無駄 is more common for abstract efforts; 役に立たない for concrete objects or people.
Stop your useless resistance.
This dictionary is useless.
Direct translations like 無駄な人 sound unnatural. Use 役に立たない人 or 役立たず (casual/rough) instead.
彼は役立たずだ。
He's useless.
He is a useless boss.
Literally 'there is no way to apply a remedy'. Formal expression for a hopeless case.
This illness is useless to treat.