Definition

Not able to produce the desired result or effect; weak or ineffective.

Example

His attempts to persuade her were ineffectual and did not change her mind.

Conversation

I tried that new study method, but I found it pretty ineffectual for me.

Really? That’s disappointing to hear.

Yeah, I was expecting better results, but it just didn’t work out.

Sometimes those methods can be ineffectual for certain subjects.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ineffectual is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "effectual" (from Latin "effectualis", meaning producing a desired effect). The word describes something that does not produce the intended result or effect.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being combined with 'producing a desired effect' ('effectual') — that's why ineffectual means not effective.

Visually Confused Words