COUNTERPRODUCTIVE Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

counterproductive

adjective

ˌkau̇n-tər-prə-ˈdək-tiv

Definition of counterproductive

as in unsuccessful

not producing the desired result harsh disciplinary measures that prove to be counterproductive

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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.

Recent Examples of counterproductive Future work could seek to understand other results, like finding out exactly when this type of interference from above becomes counterproductive, or what the long-term effects of managers taking more of a hands-on role with sales might be. — Daniel E. Chavez, The Conversation, 22 Sep. 2026 Those who do play with a single-hander, like Tsitsipas, Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti or Austria’s Lilli Tagger inspire a kind of fascination as to why anyone would go down a path that has become so unusual and supposedly counterproductive. — Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026 Hobart junior Miles White has learned to rein in his emotions, particularly when those can be counterproductive. — Michael Osipoff, Chicago Tribune, 11 Sep. 2026 While vitamin D is beneficial in older adults, taking higher doses (over 1000 IU) can be counterproductive and may be dangerous. — Emmanuella Ogbonna, HEALTH, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for counterproductive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for counterproductive

Adjective

As the unsuccessful regime-change effort in Iran demonstrated, there are no shortcuts to besting the axis countries, together or individually.

— Andrea Kendall-Taylor, Foreign Affairs, 16 Oct. 2026
Von Dohlen, a financial adviser and conservative activist who has run three unsuccessful campaigns for City Council, was unopposed in the Republican primary.

— Katie Bartlett, San Antonio Express-News, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of unsuccessful

Adjective

By any objective standard, that technology was outdated, labor-intensive, imprecise, and inefficient.

— Matt Alt, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2026
In February, the IMF separately warned that Beijing’s state subsidies were producing inefficient firms, with total subsidies amounting to some 4% of GDP.

— Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 13 Oct. 2026

Definition of inefficient

Adjective

Third-string quarterback Brock Thomas started the game for the Ducks but was largely ineffective, going 9 of 20 for 54 yards and an interception.

— ABC News, ABC News, 18 Oct. 2026
In the debate Thursday night, Sullivan highlighted his record defending Alaska's energy and military interests in the state and attacked Peltola as ineffective during her time in office.

— Matthew Choi The Washington Post, Arkansas Online, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of ineffective

Browse Nearby Words

counterpoising

counterproductive

counterproposal

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“Counterproductive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/counterproductive. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of counterproductive

adjective

Example Sentences

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