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Counterproductive: meaning, definitions and examples

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counterproductive

 

[ ˌkaʊntərprəˈdʌktɪv ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

workplace environment

Having the opposite of the desired effect, tending to hinder rather than achieve a goal

Synonyms

harmful, ineffective, unproductive

Examples of usage

  • His micromanaging style was counterproductive, leading to decreased productivity among team members.
  • Implementing strict rules without explanation can be counterproductive, as it may result in resentment and lack of motivation.
Context #2 | Adjective

behavior

Causing more harm than good, having a negative impact on progress or success

Synonyms

deleterious, detrimental, unfavorable

Examples of usage

  • His constant procrastination was counterproductive, as it prevented him from reaching his full potential.
  • Engaging in arguments instead of seeking compromise can be counterproductive in resolving conflicts.

Translations

Translations of the word "counterproductive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contraproducente

🇮🇳 उल्टा असर करनेवाला

🇩🇪 kontraproduktiv

🇮🇩 kontraproduktif

🇺🇦 контрпродуктивний

🇵🇱 kontrproduktywny

🇯🇵 逆効果的

🇫🇷 contre-productif

🇪🇸 contraproducente

🇹🇷 ters etki yapan

🇰🇷 역효과를 내는

🇸🇦 ذو تأثير عكسي

🇨🇿 kontraproduktivní

🇸🇰 kontraproduktívny

🇨🇳 适得其反的

🇸🇮 kontraproduktiven

🇮🇸 gagnslaus

🇰🇿 қайшы әсер ететін

🇬🇪 უკუქცევითი

🇦🇿 əks təsirli

🇲🇽 contraproducente

Etymology

The term 'counterproductive' originated in the mid-20th century, combining the words 'counter' and 'productive' to convey the idea of working against productivity. It gained popularity in organizational psychology and management studies to describe actions or behaviors that hinder rather than enhance productivity and progress.

See also: produce, producer, producing, productive, reproduce, reproducer, reproducibility, reproduction.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,425, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.