usefulness
noun
use·ful·ness
ˈyüs-fəl-nəs 
: the quality of having utility and especially practical worth or applicability
Synonyms
Examples of usefulness in a Sentence
the well-known usefulness of thick phone books as seat boosters for short diners
Recent Examples on the Web
Many public officials and service providers argue the SROs have outlived their usefulness, and want to demolish and replace them with apartments that have private facilities for every tenant.
—
Liam Dillon, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2024
His view of the usefulness of defining antisemitism appears to have shifted, as well.
—Eyal Press, The New Yorker, 13 Mar. 2024
However, being able to fly, perch, and walk could further improve their usefulness by expanding their operating envelope.
—IEEE Spectrum, 2 Feb. 2024
Defining the Anthropocene as this specific chunk of geologic time would limit the usefulness of the term, Ellis says.
—Jonathan Lambert, NPR, 29 Mar. 2024
With their streamlined aesthetics and seamless integration of features that enhance both their usefulness and efficiency.
—Bhanu Chopra, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2024
Zippered pockets also contribute significantly to a vest’s usefulness.
—Jessica MacDonald, Travel + Leisure, 29 Jan. 2024
Buy Now on Mohawk General Store: $485 Photo : Mr Porter
Purdey Town and Country Double-Breasted Camel Hair-Blend Coat
Never underestimate the usefulness of a good camel-hair coat.
—Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 23 Feb. 2024
This should involve an analysis of how the values are used in decision-making (i.e., their usefulness in guiding the process and alignment with the outcome).
—Christoph Knitter, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2024
Liam Dillon, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2024
His view of the usefulness of defining antisemitism appears to have shifted, as well.
—Eyal Press, The New Yorker, 13 Mar. 2024
However, being able to fly, perch, and walk could further improve their usefulness by expanding their operating envelope.
—IEEE Spectrum, 2 Feb. 2024
Defining the Anthropocene as this specific chunk of geologic time would limit the usefulness of the term, Ellis says.
—Jonathan Lambert, NPR, 29 Mar. 2024
With their streamlined aesthetics and seamless integration of features that enhance both their usefulness and efficiency.
—Bhanu Chopra, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2024
Zippered pockets also contribute significantly to a vest’s usefulness.
—Jessica MacDonald, Travel + Leisure, 29 Jan. 2024
Buy Now on Mohawk General Store: $485 Photo : Mr Porter
Purdey Town and Country Double-Breasted Camel Hair-Blend Coat
Never underestimate the usefulness of a good camel-hair coat.
—Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 23 Feb. 2024
This should involve an analysis of how the values are used in decision-making (i.e., their usefulness in guiding the process and alignment with the outcome).
—Christoph Knitter, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'usefulness.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1618, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing usefulness
Dictionary Entries Near usefulness
Cite this Entry
“Usefulness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/usefulness. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.
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More from Merriam-Webster on usefulness
Nglish: Translation of usefulness for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of usefulness for Arabic Speakers
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