INEFFICIENT Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

inefficient

adjective

ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shənt

Definition of inefficient

as in unsuccessful

not producing the desired result inefficient measures to solve the problem of teenage smoking

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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 inefficient Field agents endure inefficient routing and prolonged idle times between assignments, and passengers experience frustrating delays at gates or baggage claims. — Justin Newell, Forbes.com, 28 Sep. 2026 Many residents, community leaders and experts say that the current approach — which favors armed confrontations between police and the groups — is inefficient and often results in indiscriminate loss of life. — ABC News, 27 Sep. 2026 Every year, by design, the law forces thousands of inefficient old vehicles off the road as the cost of compliance rises and parts become harder to find. — Kyle Cheromcha, The Drive, 24 Sep. 2026 Inflated costs, poor management with overstaffing and lack of oversight, and inefficient results resulted in higher bills, downgraded of the city’s credit rating, created extensive public outcry, and resulted in the state taking over the project. — Peggy Gossett-Seidman, Sun Sentinel, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inefficient

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inefficient

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

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

Adjective

The lesson is not to abandon the region but to rethink an approach that has become both too costly and counterproductive.

— Philip H. Gordon, Foreign Affairs, 12 Oct. 2026
Industry analysts note that abandoning the export ban reflects recognition that such restrictions could prove counterproductive.

— , CNBC, 7 Oct. 2026

Definition of counterproductive

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inefficiency

inefficient

inefficiently

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Style

“Inefficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inefficient. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of inefficient

adjective

Example Sentences

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