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

Existing portfolio companies include Swap Commerce in the UK, which is helping e-commerce companies tackle resource inefficiencies, Cloover, a German financing company in the renewable energy sector, and Dawnguard, a Dutch cyber security specialist. —David Prosser, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025

Manning’s inefficiency was on full display, and the Longhorns faithful grew tired of it during the first half. —Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 14 Sep. 2025

This creates a perfect storm for conflict, inefficiency, and fraud. —Matt Emma, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025

Mahan sees opportunities for automation anywhere there is inefficiency, such as the building permit process. —Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 5 Sep. 2025

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