Synonyms of inefficient

inefficient

adjective

ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shənt 

as in unsuccessful

not producing the desired result

inefficient measures to solve the problem of teenage smoking

Synonyms & Similar Words

• unsuccessful
• ineffective
• counterproductive
• ineffectual
• inexpedient
• worthless
• useless
• feckless
• unprofitable
• pointless
• futile
• unproductive
• nonproductive
• inefficacious
• abortive
• unavailing
• hamstrung
• fruitless
• profitless
• bootless

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• efficient
• effective
• expedient
• efficacious
• effectual
• operant
• successful
• beneficial
• useful
• profitable
• helpful
• productive
• worthwhile
• ultraefficient
• availing

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of inefficient

On the other hand, detailed reviews of individual high-cost claims frequently reveal inefficient areas in an employer’s health plan. — Bruce Roffe, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026

Earlier research had shown that unclonable encryption was possible, but existing approaches were either inefficient or needed certain assumptions to be secure. — Peter Hall, Scientific American, 31 July 2026

Thanks to a shortage of memory chips produced by the profoundly resource-hungry and inefficient AI industry, consumer electronics are becoming much more expensive across the board. — Damon Beres, The Atlantic, 29 July 2026

Nearly all of Las Vegas' indoor water use is recycled, meaning the issues of conservation now lie with outdoor watering and inefficient cooling systems. — Carly Sauvageau, USA Today, 28 July 2026