徒劳

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"徒劳" means "futile effort" or "effort in vain." It describes situations where hard work or attempts do not produce any positive result. It often carries a slightly negative or regretful tone.

Common Contexts

This word is frequently used to express disappointment after unsuccessful attempts, such as studying without preparation, trying to persuade someone stubborn, or working hard without achieving the goal.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 徒劳 (túláo wúgōng): "effort without success"; emphasizes complete failure despite effort.
  • 徒劳 + verb: used to describe actions done in vain, e.g., 徒劳争辩 (argue in vain).

Usage Notes

"徒劳" is often paired with verbs or phrases indicating effort or struggle. It is more formal and literary than casual synonyms like "费力." Avoid confusing it with "努力," which simply means "to make an effort" without implying failure.

Example Sentences

He worked hard for a long time, but in the end, it was all in vain.

Going to the exam without preparation was a futile effort.

Arguing in vain will only waste time.