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.