inefficient

adjective

in·​ef·​fi·​cient ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shənt 

: not efficient: such as

a

: wasteful of time or energy

inefficient operating procedures

b

: incapable, incompetent

an inefficient worker

c

: not producing the effect intended or desired

used inefficient measures

inefficient noun

inefficiently adverb

Synonyms of inefficient

• unsuccessful
• ineffective
• counterproductive

Examples of inefficient in a Sentence

The delivery system was very inefficient.

an inefficient use of fuel

Recent Examples on the Web

To break this inefficient pattern, brands should proactively disclose their budget range early in discussions. — Chris Ryan, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026

Nearly all of Las Vegas' indoor water use is recycled, meaning the issues of conservation now lie with outdoor watering and inefficient cooling systems. — Carly Sauvageau, USA Today, 28 July 2026

The doctor argued that one strategy to more effectively organize the health system would be to implement new technology, noting that Venezuela still uses an inefficient paper-record system. — Alfie Pannell, Miami Herald, 23 July 2026

State and local governments also usually have programs that help residents insulate their homes and upgrade inefficient appliances. — Destenie Nock, The Conversation, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inefficient

• beneficent
• coefficient
• insufficient
• deficient
• efficient
• omniscient
• proficient
• sufficient

Kids Definition

inefficient

adjective

in·​ef·​fi·​cient ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ənt 

1

: not producing the effect expected or desired

inefficient regulations

2

: wasteful of time or energy

inefficient procedures

especially : accomplishing little relative to the time spent or effort expended

an inefficient worker

inefficiently adverb