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UK//ɪn veɪn//US//ɪn veɪn//

Meaning of In vain

Attempting something with no success.

In simple words: without success

In vain in a sentence

  • She tried to convince him, but all her efforts were in vain.
  • They searched for hours, but their efforts were in vain.
  • He called her name in vain, hoping she would respond.
  • The protest was in vain as the law was passed anyway.

How to use In vain

Typically used in contexts of effort or attempts that are unsuccessful. Avoid in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of a 'vain' person who always tries but never succeeds.

Related words

Collocations with In vain

  • try in vain
  • effort in vain
  • seek in vain

Synonyms for In vain

  • unsuccessfully
  • without success
  • to no avail

Opposites of In vain

Common mistakes with In vain

  • 'In vein' is a common mishearing.
  • Confusing it with 'in gain' which means the opposite.
  • Using it when the effort is partially successful.

In vain appears in

In vain in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about In vain

What does In vain mean?

without success

What is the definition of In vain?

Attempting something with no success.

How do you use In vain in a sentence?

She tried to convince him, but all her efforts were in vain.

Can you give another example of In vain?

They searched for hours, but their efforts were in vain.

What are synonyms for In vain?

Common alternatives include unsuccessfully, without success, to no avail.

What is the opposite of In vain?

Opposite meanings include successfully, effectively.

What words go with In vain?

It commonly pairs with try in vain, effort in vain, seek in vain.

What are common mistakes when using In vain?

'In vein' is a common mishearing. Confusing it with 'in gain' which means the opposite. Using it when the effort is partially successful.

How do you pronounce In vain?

US: //ɪn veɪn//, UK: //ɪn veɪn//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use In vain?

Typically used in contexts of effort or attempts that are unsuccessful. Avoid in overly formal writing.