senseless
word · lemma: sense
Definition
Lacking meaning, purpose, or reason; pointless. Can also mean unconscious, as in knocked out or unresponsive.
Usage & Nuances
Two distinct meanings: (1) pointless/meaningless ('senseless violence', 'senseless waste') and (2) unconscious ('beaten senseless', 'knocked senseless'). The first meaning carries strong disapproval. Often collocates with violence, killing, and tragedy to emphasize their needlessness.
Example Sentences
The senseless violence in the movie shocked the audience.
basic
The boxer was knocked senseless in the third round.
basic
It would be senseless to go outside in this storm.
basic
Another senseless shooting — when will people wake up?
natural
They beat him senseless and left him in the alley.
natural
The whole argument was senseless — neither of them even remembered what started it.
natural