Counterproductive - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Counterproductive means having the opposite effect of what is intended, often causing harm or hindering progress. For example, excessive criticism can be counterproductive to learning. (30 words)
Definition:
Having the opposite of the desired effect, hindering rather than helping progress.
Synonyms:
Ineffective, detrimental, self-defeating, unhelpful
Part of Speech:
Adjective
Antonyms:
Productive, beneficial, helpful
Common Collocations:
Counterproductive behavior, counterproductive measures, counterproductive results
Derivatives:
Counterproductively, counterproductiveness
Usage Tips:
Use "counterproductive" to describe actions or policies that undermine intended goals rather than support them.
Common Phrases:
Backfire, work against oneself, cut off one's nose to spite one's face
Etymology:
Derived from "counter-" (against) + "productive," first used in the early 20th century.
Examples:
- 1. Working late every night can be counterproductive if it leads to burnout.
- 2. His constant interruptions were counterproductive to the team's progress.
- 3. Strict rules without flexibility often prove counterproductive in creative fields.
- 4. Ignoring feedback is counterproductive if you want to improve your skills.