counterproductive

adjective

coun·​ter·​pro·​duc·​tive ˌkau̇n-tər-prə-ˈdək-tiv 

: tending to hinder the attainment of a desired goal

violence as a means to achieve an end is counterproductive

—W. E. Brock born 1930

Synonyms

• unsuccessful
• inefficient
• ineffective
• inexpedient

Examples of counterproductive in a Sentence

His uncontrollable anger is very counterproductive to his attempt at saving his marriage.

harsh disciplinary measures that prove to be counterproductive

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite the league's efforts to promote unity, NFL legend Brett Favre feels the messages are counterproductive. —Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 5 Sep. 2025

That’s really so counterproductive. —Emma Madden, Pitchfork, 4 Sep. 2025

The new research suggests that these depictions are not only inaccurate but potentially counterproductive in understanding and addressing the appeal of conspiracy beliefs. —Thomas Westerholm, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Aug. 2025

Moscow and Beijing separately denounced the move, portraying it as misguided and counterproductive. —Brady Knox, The Washington Examiner, 29 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for counterproductive

• photoconductive
• superconductive
• abductive
• conductive
• constructive
• deductive
• destructive
• inductive
• instructive
• obstructive
• productive
• reductive