- 1that does not produce the result you want synonym useless She closed her eyes tightly in a vain attempt to hold back the tears. I knocked loudly in the vain hope that someone might answer.
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- 2(disapproving) too proud of your own appearance, abilities, or achievements synonym conceited She's too vain to wear glasses. see vanity Idioms
without success They tried in vain to persuade her to go. She waited in vain for her son to return. All our efforts were in vain.
to use the words “God,” “Jesus,” etc. in a way that shows a lack of respect
to show a lack of respect when using someone's name (humorous) Have you been taking my name in vain again?
Check pronunciation: vain