Which of the following means "useless" or "forlorn"?

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The term "futile" is synonymous with being "useless" or "forlorn." When something is described as futile, it implies that it lacks any useful result or purpose and is consequently considered ineffective or hopeless. This aligns closely with the concepts of being "useless" and "forlorn," suggesting a sense of despair or lack of success.

The other options do not convey a similar meaning. "Useful" refers to something that has a practical purpose or can provide benefit, while "profitable" denotes the ability to yield financial gain or advantage. "Beneficial" suggests something that promotes well-being or improvement, which is the opposite of being described as useless. Thus, "futile" stands out as the only choice that accurately captures the essence of being ineffective or abandoned.