expression, i-adjective
insubstantial; pointless; fruitless
Describes something lacking substance, meaning, or tangible results. Often used for empty talk, hollow arguments, or fruitless efforts.
彼の話は実のないことばかりだった。
His talk was nothing but insubstantial chatter.
実のない議論に時間を費やした。
We wasted time on a pointless discussion.
無意味 means 'meaningless' in a broad sense, while 実のない emphasizes lack of substance or tangible content.
空しい conveys emptiness or futility with an emotional tone, whereas 実のない is more objective about lacking substance.
Phrase composed of 実 (fruit, substance) + の (possessive particle) + ない (negative form of ある). Literally 'without fruit/substance'.