Okay, but "trip in vain" generally means you are asking for a refund. But, as you yourself noted above, if the flight leaves on time there is no "trip in vain" claim to be made. "trip in vain" only applies if there is some airline caused delay which would cause one to miss an important meeting or other event and hence "trip in vain".
100% agree. I suspect when I contacted AA and said I didn't want a refund just wanted the miles hey and not issue making and adjustment