Efficient: meaning, definitions and examples

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efficient

 

[ ɪˈfɪʃənt ]

Context #1 | Adjective

work performance

Achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense.

Synonyms

capable, competent, effective, productive

Examples of usage

  • She is known for her efficient work ethic.
  • Using a computer can make tasks more efficient.
Context #2 | Adjective

energy use

Operating or working in a way that does not waste energy.

Synonyms

eco-friendly, environmentally friendly, green, sustainable

Examples of usage

  • Energy-efficient appliances help reduce electricity bills.
  • Using energy-efficient lighting can help save the environment.
Context #3 | Noun

physics

A measure of the effectiveness of a system in transforming energy input into useful work output.

Synonyms

effectiveness, output, performance, productivity

Examples of usage

  • The efficiency of the engine determines its performance.
  • Improving efficiency can lead to cost savings.

Translations

Translations of the word "efficient" in other languages:

🇵🇹 eficiente

🇮🇳 कुशल

🇩🇪 effizient

🇮🇩 efisien

🇺🇦 ефективний

🇵🇱 wydajny

🇯🇵 効率的な (こうりつてきな)

🇫🇷 efficace

🇪🇸 eficiente

🇹🇷 verimli

🇰🇷 효율적인 (효율적이다)

🇸🇦 فعال

🇨🇿 efektivní

🇸🇰 efektívny

🇨🇳 高效 (gāoxiào)

🇸🇮 učinkovit

🇮🇸 skilvirkur

🇰🇿 тиімді

🇬🇪 ეფექტური (efekturi)

🇦🇿 səmərəli

🇲🇽 eficiente

Word origin

The word 'efficient' comes from the Latin word 'efficiens', present participle of 'efficere', meaning 'accomplish'. It entered English in the late 14th century with the sense of 'capable of producing a desired effect'. Over time, its usage expanded to include the idea of achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense.

See also: efficiency, efficiently, inefficient, inefficiently.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,883, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.