What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inefficacious
Example
The new drug was found to be inefficacious in treating the disease. [inefficacious: adjective]
Example
Despite their efforts, the team's strategy proved to be inefficacious in winning the game. [inefficacious: adjective]
useless
Example
This old computer is useless and needs to be replaced. [useless: adjective]
Example
I tried to fix the broken lamp, but it was useless. [useless: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Useless is more commonly used than inefficacious in everyday language. Useless is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while inefficacious is less common and typically used in formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inefficacious and useless?
Inefficacious is more formal and technical than useless. It is often used in scientific or medical contexts to describe treatments or medications that do not work. Useless, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.