How Do You Spell UNAVAILING?

Pronunciation: [ʌnɐvˈe͡ɪlɪŋ] (IPA)

The word "unavailing" is spelled with the letter "a" after the "v" and before the "i", which may seem confusing at first glance. However, the IPA phonetic transcription of /ˌʌnəˈveɪlɪŋ/ helps to clarify this. The "ai" sound in "unavailing" is actually pronounced as a diphthong, with the two vowel sounds blending together. This makes the spelling more logical, as it reflects the way the word is pronounced. "Unavailing" means ineffective or useless, and is often used to describe efforts or attempts that have not achieved their desired outcome.

UNAVAILING Meaning and Definition

  1. Unavailing is an adjective that refers to something that is ineffective, futile, or useless in achieving a desired outcome. It describes an effort, action, or attempt that produces no positive result or does not lead to the desired outcome. The word can also describe someone or something that is incapable of achieving their intended purpose or goal.

    When used in the context of an action or effort, unavailing suggests that despite the effort put into it, it failed to bring about the desired result or had no impact. For example, one might say, "Despite all her begging and pleading, her attempts to change his mind were unavailing, and he still decided to leave."

    Similarly, the term can apply to an object or tool that is incapable of fulfilling its purpose. For instance, if a car has a flat tire and thus cannot be driven, it would be considered unavailing until it is repaired or replaced.

    Overall, unavailing implies a lack of effectiveness or meaningfulness in achieving a desired outcome, whether it refers to actions, efforts, or objects. It portrays a situation or endeavor as fruitless or unsuccessful, highlighting that it did not produce the desired consequences or benefits.

  2. Not having the desired effect; useless.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for UNAVAILING

Etymology of UNAVAILING

The word unavailing has its etymology traced back to the combination of the prefix un- and the verb avail.

The prefix un- is derived from Old English and means not or lack of. It is used to negate or reverse the meaning of the word it attaches to.

The verb avail comes from the Old French availler, which means to be of use. Avail itself is derived from the Latin word valere, which means to be strong or be well.

Therefore, unavailing can be understood as not being of use or lacking effectiveness.

Similar spelling words for UNAVAILING

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