Meaning & Definition of word "Inefficiency"
Inefficiency
/ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənsi/
noun:
- 1. The quality or state of being inefficient; lack of efficiency.
- Example: The company's inefficiency led to increased operational costs.
- 2. Wasteful or ineffective use of resources.
- Example: The inefficiency of the old machinery resulted in delays during production.
- 3. The inability to produce desired results with a minimum of effort or waste.
- Example: Studies have shown that inefficiency in public transportation can discourage people from using it.
- 4. A situation or condition where resources are not utilized to their full potential.
- Example: Addressing the inefficiency within the workflow improved overall productivity.
Etymology
●From the prefix in- meaning 'not' and efficiency, derived from Latin 'efficientia'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
time inefficiency:
A situation where time is not being used productively.
energy inefficiency:
A state where energy is wasted rather than used effectively.
resource inefficiency:
The ineffective use of resources leading to waste.
Related Words
efficiency:
The ability to accomplish a task with minimal waste of time and resources.
effective:
Being successful in producing a desired or intended result.
productivity:
The effectiveness of productive effort, especially in industry.
Slang Meanings of inefficiency
Meaning: Sluggishness in work or progress.
● Example Sentence: That project is all sluggishness; we need to find a way to speed it up.
Meaning: Running in circles without getting results.
● Example Sentence: We're just going in circles on this project; total inefficiency.