Meaning and Usage
"徒劳" means "futile effort" or "effort in vain." It describes situations where hard work or attempts do not produce any positive result. It often carries a slightly negative or regretful tone.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used to express disappointment after unsuccessful attempts, such as studying without preparation, trying to persuade someone stubborn, or working hard without achieving the goal.
Collocations and Patterns
- 徒劳无功 (túláo wúgōng): "effort without success"; emphasizes complete failure despite effort.
- 徒劳地 + verb: used to describe actions done in vain, e.g., 徒劳地争辩 (argue in vain).
Usage Notes
"徒劳" is often paired with verbs or phrases indicating effort or struggle. It is more formal and literary than casual synonyms like "白费力气." Avoid confusing it with "努力," which simply means "to make an effort" without implying failure.