Translation guide
How to express that something is useless, futile, or of no use in Japanese, depending on the nuance.
Describing an action, effort, or thing that does not produce the desired result or is pointless.
The most common and versatile word for 'useless' or 'futile'. Can describe wasted effort, useless things, or pointless actions.
そんなことをしても無駄だ。
It's useless to do that.
無駄な努力だった。
It was a useless effort.
Literally 'does not stand in a role', meaning 'useless' in the sense of not being helpful or functional.
この道具は全然役に立たない。
This tool is completely useless.
Means 'meaningless' or 'pointless'. Often used for abstract things like arguments or efforts.
そんな議論は無意味だ。
Such an argument is useless/pointless.
Describing a person, object, or information that has no worth or utility.
Directly means 'has no value'. Used for objects, information, or people.
この情報は価値がない。
This information is useless.
Means 'not fit for use', 'unusable'. Often for broken or defective items.
このパソコンはもう使い物にならない。
This computer is useless now.
A noun meaning 'good-for-nothing' or 'useless person/thing'. Can be insulting when referring to people.
Describing a person who is incapable or ineffective.
Also used for people who are not helpful or competent.
彼は何もできない、役に立たない人だ。
He can't do anything; he's a useless person.
Means 'incompetent' or 'inept'. Stronger and more direct than 役に立たない.
彼は無能な上司だ。
He is a useless boss.
Describing a situation or person that cannot be improved or saved.
Means 'there's nothing that can be done', 'hopeless'. Used for situations or people.
もうどうしようもない状態だ。
It's a useless/hopeless situation now.
Literally 'there is no way to apply a remedy'. Formal expression for a hopeless case.
この病気は手の施しようがない。
This illness is useless to treat.
無駄 emphasizes futility or waste, while 役に立たない focuses on lack of practical utility. 無駄 is more common for abstract efforts; 役に立たない for concrete objects or people.
無駄な抵抗はやめろ。
Stop your useless resistance.
この辞書は役に立たない。
This dictionary is useless.
Direct translations like 無駄な人 sound unnatural. Use 役に立たない人 or 役立たず (casual/rough) instead.
彼は役立たずだ。
He's useless.