Counterproductive: meaning, definitions and examples
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counterproductive
[ ˌkaʊntərprəˈdʌktɪv ]
workplace environment
Having the opposite of the desired effect, tending to hinder rather than achieve a goal
Synonyms
harmful, ineffective, unproductive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
counterproductive |
Suitable for situations where an action or event has the opposite of the desired effect.
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ineffective |
Appropriate for describing something that does not achieve the desired outcome or purpose.
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unproductive |
Best used to describe activities or efforts that do not produce significant results or outputs.
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harmful |
Used when an action or substance causes physical, mental, or emotional harm. Usually has a negative connotation.
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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.
behavior
Causing more harm than good, having a negative impact on progress or success
Synonyms
deleterious, detrimental, unfavorable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
counterproductive |
Applicable when something has the opposite effect from what was intended, especially when trying to achieve a goal but instead causing setbacks.
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detrimental |
Most suitable for formal or semi-formal contexts when describing something that is harmful or damaging, especially in terms of long-term effects.
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deleterious |
Used in more formal contexts to describe something that causes harm or damage, particularly to health or well-being.
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unfavorable |
Used when describing conditions or situations that are not beneficial or make it difficult to achieve desired outcomes.
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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.
- ...
- 19422 decontamination
- 19423 browned
- 19424 volunteering
- 19425 counterproductive
- 19426 dissecting
- 19427 granulation
- 19428 turban
- ...