counterproductive

coun·ter·pro·duc·tive

adj \-prə-ˈdək-tiv\

Definition of COUNTERPRODUCTIVE

: tending to hinder the attainment of a desired goal <violence as a means to achieve an end is counterproductive — W. E. Brock b1930>

Examples of COUNTERPRODUCTIVE

1. His uncontrollable anger is very counterproductive to his attempt at saving his marriage.
2. <harsh disciplinary measures that prove to be counterproductive>

First Known Use of COUNTERPRODUCTIVE

1959

Related to COUNTERPRODUCTIVE

Synonyms: ineffective, feckless, hamstrung, ineffectual, inefficacious, inefficient, inexpedient

Antonyms: effective, effectual, efficacious, efficient, expedient, operant, ultraefficient

Related Words: abortive, bootless, fruitless, futile, nonproductive, pointless, profitless, unavailing, unproductive, unprofitable, unsuccessful, useless, worthless

Near Antonyms: availing, beneficial, helpful, productive, profitable, successful, useful, worthwhile

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