fool's errand
The phrase "fool's errand" often describes a pointless or futile task, sometimes used as a prank.
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Definition
B2General
(informal)A task that is pointless or has no chance of success.
Example
- Trying to convince him is a fool's errand; he never listens to reason.
B2Practical Jokes
(informal, prank)A purposeless task given as a joke.
Example
- Sending the new intern to find a 'left-handed screwdriver' was a classic fool's errand.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "fool's errand":