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

Both scenarios represent value at risk—one impacting patient satisfaction and care outcomes, the other driving inefficiencies in operational costs. —Nitesh Mirchandani, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025

For growing companies, this fragmented model creates inefficiencies that ripple far beyond the furniture itself. —Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 9 Sep. 2025

What has resulted is a system full of inefficiencies and lost potential. —Brian Deese, Foreign Affairs, 9 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