in vain

• Expression signifiant sans succès, sans résultat ni effet ; utilisée pour décrire un effort qui n'a pas abouti à l'issue souhaitée.

An expression meaning without success, result, or effect; used to describe an effort that yields no desired outcome.

1. Without success or resultB2formal

   Achieving no result; uselessly or unsuccessfully.

   en vain

   • He tried to fix the engine in vain.
   • She searched for her lost ring in vain.
   • All their efforts to save the company were in vain.

2. Without proper respectB2formal

   Used in the phrase 'take someone's name in vain', meaning to use a name disrespectfully.

   en vain (dans 'prendre le nom de quelqu'un en vain')

   • He was accused of taking the Lord's name in vain.
   • She felt he took her name in vain when he lied about her.
   • Don't take my name in vain when you talk to others.