Definition

In a way that does not produce the desired result or is ineffective.

Example

She tried unavailingly to convince him to change his mind.

Conversation

I tried to convince my boss to let me work from home, but he responded unavailingly.

That's frustrating! Sometimes it feels like they don't even consider our needs.

Exactly, I just wish he would listen to our concerns more openly.

I get that. It can be tough when communication feels so one-sided.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unavailingly → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "available" (from Latin "valere", meaning to be strong or to be worth) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word means in a manner that is not useful or effective.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with 'worth' ('valere') to remember that 'unavailingly' means something is done in a way that is not useful.

Visually Confused Words