ineffective

adjective

in·​ef·​fec·​tive ˌi-nə-ˈfek-tiv 

1

: not producing an intended effect : ineffectual

ineffective lighting

2

: not capable of performing efficiently or as expected : incapable

an ineffective executive

ineffectively adverb

ineffectiveness noun

Synonyms

• counterproductive
• feckless
• hamstrung
• ineffectual
• inefficacious
• inefficient
• inexpedient

Examples of ineffective in a Sentence

The treatment was ineffective against the disease.

an ineffective effort to reduce unemployment that only spurred inflation

Recent Examples on the Web

However, open surgery may be necessary to remove the stones if other treatments are ineffective—though this is rare.4 A Quick Review Kidney stone pain can vary in intensity and disrupt daily activities. —Sarah Jividen, Health, 17 July 2024

The president has proposed policies designed to increase home construction, but industry representatives were quick to criticize the rent cap as ineffective for addressing the overall shortage and possibly leading to fewer habitable units than the country would otherwise have. —Josh Boak, Fortune, 15 July 2024

At the same time, however, some advocates criticized that system as ineffective. —Lauren Lumpkin, Washington Post, 13 July 2024

However, Republicans have failed to engage in meaningful discussions, instead focusing on exploiting border situations for political gain and emphasizing ineffective enforcement measures. —Laura Gersony, The Arizona Republic, 9 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1649, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

ineffective

adjective

in·​ef·​fec·​tive ˌin-ə-ˈfek-tiv 

1

: not producing the desired effect

an ineffective law

2

: not performing as well as expected or needed

an ineffective leader

ineffectively adverb

ineffectiveness noun