Inefficient: meaning, definitions and examples

When something requires more time, effort, or resources than necessary.

• The old heating system is very inefficient
• Inefficient processes can lead to higher operational costs

When something does not produce the desired result or outcome.

• The medication was ineffective in treating the disease
• Ineffective measures were taken to stop the spread of the virus

When something involves unnecessary use or expenditure, often in a way that could have been avoided.

• Leaving the lights on all night is wasteful
• His lifestyle is very wasteful with resources

When little to no progress or results are achieved, often related to work or effort.

• The meeting was unproductive as no decisions were made
• Spending hours on social media can be unproductive

When something or someone uses too many resources (time, energy, money) to achieve a result that could be reached with fewer resources.

• The new factory process is inefficient and requires a lot of manual adjustments
• His workflow is inefficient, leading to a lot of wasted time

When something or someone fails to produce the desired outcome or result, despite efforts being made.

• The new marketing campaign was ineffective and did not increase sales
• This medicine is ineffective against the virus

When actions or behaviors lead to unnecessary loss or use of resources, often seen as careless or extravagant.

• Leaving the lights on all night is very wasteful
• The company's expenditure on luxury offices was wasteful considering their financial troubles

When someone is clumsy or lacks skill in a particular area, often leading to poor performance. This has a negative connotation.

• His performance in the play was so inept that the audience laughed at the wrong moments
• She is inept at managing finances, causing her to run into debt often