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"Pointless" vs. "meaningless": distinctions in the void

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 17/10/2024, 07:18

English.me team member

Pointless and meaningless. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "pointless" and "meaningless" describe something that lacks significance, purpose, or value. They can be used interchangeably in many contexts to convey the lack of impact or reason.

What is different?

The word "pointless" often focuses more on the lack of a practical outcome or aim, while "meaningless" focuses more on the lack of inherent significance or value. "Pointless" might imply a wasted effort or energy, whereas "meaningless" might imply something that lacks interpretive or emotional content.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for pointless) and meaningless

Examples of usage

Pointless

It was a pointless argument that solved nothing.
Running in circles felt pointless after a while.

Meaningless

His words became meaningless over time.
The symbols on the paper were meaningless to her.

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