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.
This includes putting more tax inefficient investments into tax advantaged accounts, like 401(k), 403(b), 529 college savings accounts, and HSAs, to name just a few. 6. Jonathan I. Shenkman, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 Parking has changed greatly over the years in Boise, in part because city planners have tried to get rid of inefficient surface parking lots. Carolyn Komatsoulis, Idaho Statesman, 1 July 2025 Sunday spotlight The Royals continue to be plagued by inefficient offense. Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 29 June 2025 Ondrej Palat is an inefficient contract that the Devils should try shipping out to fund some of those upgrades. Harman Dayal, New York Times, 21 June 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

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Cite this Entry

“Inefficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficient. Accessed 7 Jul. 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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