# fool's errand

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/fools-errand
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A foolish undertaking, especially one that is purposeless, fruitless, nonsensical, or certain to fail.

## Examples

- Searching for that lost key in the dark is a fool's errand.
- Trying to fix this broken computer without any tools is just a fool's errand.
- The explorers realized that searching for the mythical city in such harsh conditions was a fool's errand, yet they continued their journey regardless.

## Origin

First recorded in the 18th century as a compound of fool and errand.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.