inefficient

adjective

in·​ef·​fi·​cient ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shənt 

: not efficient: such as

a

: wasteful of time or energy

inefficient operating procedures

b

: incapable, incompetent

an inefficient worker

c

: not producing the effect intended or desired

inefficient noun

inefficiently adverb

Synonyms

• counterproductive
• feckless
• hamstrung
• ineffective
• ineffectual
• inefficacious
• inexpedient

Examples of inefficient in a Sentence

The delivery system was very inefficient.

an inefficient use of fuel

Recent Examples on the Web

Others are stuck using inefficient payment methods due to access or old habits. —Kevin O'Brien, Forbes, 18 Oct. 2024

However, experts have proven time and again that airplane boarding is still pretty inefficient, despite the airlines' best efforts. —Zach Wichter, USA TODAY, 18 Oct. 2024

The building also has an inefficient layout and has small classrooms and narrow and congested hallways. —Alec Johnson, Journal Sentinel, 15 Oct. 2024

One exception to the rule is tariffs: Economists nearly universally reject them as counterproductive and inefficient. —Neil Irwin, Axios, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

inefficient

adjective

in·​ef·​fi·​cient ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ənt 

1

: not producing the effect expected or desired

inefficient regulations

2

: wasteful of time or energy

inefficient procedures

especially : accomplishing little relative to the time spent or effort expended

an inefficient worker

inefficiently adverb