inefficient

adjective

in·​ef·​fi·​cient ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shənt How to pronounce inefficient (audio)
: 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

Examples of inefficient in a Sentence

The delivery system was very inefficient. an inefficient use of fuel
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What this means for you Smarter road monitoring could lead to fewer potholes, smoother commutes and less taxpayer money wasted on inefficient repairs. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2025 One is that payments to a narrow group of those affected by unwise trade policies are economically inefficient. Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 12 Oct. 2025 There have been problems festering — especially with a lackluster, inefficient offense. Zach Berman, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 Before national rules, businesses navigated a patchwork of state laws that were inefficient, inconsistent, and sometimes dangerous. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inefficient

Word History

First Known Use

1750, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inefficient was in 1750

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inefficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficient. Accessed 19 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

inefficient

adjective
in·​ef·​fi·​cient ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ənt How to pronounce inefficient (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on inefficient

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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