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Inefficient - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Inefficient means not achieving maximum productivity or wasting time, energy, or resources. It describes processes, systems, or actions that could be performed better with less effort or cost.

inefficient

/ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənt/ /ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənt/

Definition:

Not achieving maximum productivity; wasting time, energy, or resources.

Synonyms:

wasteful, ineffective, unproductive, sluggish

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

efficient, effective, productive

Common Collocations:

inefficient system, inefficient process, inefficient use of resources

Derivatives:

inefficiency, inefficiently

Usage Tips:

Use "inefficient" to describe processes or systems that waste resources or fail to perform optimally.

Common Phrases:

inefficiency at its peak, running inefficiently, inefficient by design

Etymology:

From Latin "in-" (not) + "efficientem" (effective), meaning not effective or productive.

Examples:

  • 1. The old machine is inefficient and wastes electricity.
  • 2. Her inefficient study habits led to poor exam results.
  • 3. The factory’s outdated methods are highly inefficient.
  • 4. Inefficient management caused delays in the project.

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