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Unproductive

/ˌʌnprəˈdʌktɪv/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

not producing or achieving desired results; ineffective.

The meeting was unproductive, as no decisions were made.

unable to yield or give forth a useful amount of work, crops, etc.; barren.

After years of unproductive farming, they decided to move to a more fertile area.

characterized by a lack of progress or output.

Her unproductive study habits were affecting her grades.

not contributing to the economy or organization in a beneficial way.

He felt his unproductive role in the company was stifling his career growth.

Etymology

The word 'unproductive' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'productive', which is from Latin 'productivus', meaning 'that produces' or 'yielding results'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

unproductive time

Time that is not used efficiently or effectively.

unproductive behavior

Actions that do not lead to positive outcomes or results.

unproductive discussion

A conversation that does not generate useful ideas or solutions.

Related Words

productive

Resulting in a significant amount of output; yielding good results.

counterproductive

Having the opposite of the desired effect; hindering progress.

inefficient

Not achieving maximum productivity; wasteful.

Slang Meanings

A waste of time.

That meeting was a total waste of time, completely unproductive.

Going in circles.

We just kept going in circles on that project; it was so unproductive.