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

The moving and logistics sector has struggled to keep pace with changing consumer expectations, and has traditionally been defined by inconsistent service and operational inefficiencies. —Nia Bowers, USA Today, 8 Apr. 2026

This is presented as evidence of inefficiency. —Diego Schaps, STAT, 1 Apr. 2026

That inefficiency brought his pitch count up to 78 pitches twice through the Guardians’ batting order, and Roberts pulled him when the lineup turned over again. —Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2026

There is still enormous inefficiency in the criminal justice system. —William J. Bratton, New York Daily News, 31 Mar. 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