inefficiency

noun

in·​ef·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē 

plural inefficiencies

1

: the quality or state of being inefficient

2

: something that is inefficient

Examples of inefficiency in a Sentence

The candidate blamed her opponent for the local government's inefficiency.

She claims that money can be saved by reducing inefficiencies.

Recent Examples on the Web

Feeling warmth or air flow around the edges of your windows and doors can point to inefficiencies and air leaks. — Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 3 Aug. 2026

This type of structural reform would really address waste and inefficiency, and contribute to long-term positive tax change. — Chicago Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026

Building data centers adjacent to the solar complex also cuts down on transmission inefficiencies. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 2 Aug. 2026

Instead of simply increasing ad spend, the article urges brands to identify and patch these costly inefficiencies. — Sonia Thompson, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1749, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for inefficiency

• insufficiency
• deficiency
• efficiency
• proficiency
• sufficiency
• immunodeficiency

Kids Definition

inefficiency

noun

in·​ef·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ən-sē 

plural inefficiencies

1

: the quality or state of being inefficient

2

: something that is inefficient