# in vain

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/in-vain
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Without success or a result; ending in failure.

## Examples

- I tried to fix the broken watch, but it was in vain.
- We searched for the lost keys for hours, but our efforts were in vain.
- Despite his desperate pleas for mercy, the prisoner realized his efforts to change the judge's mind were entirely in vain.

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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.