Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Productivity: meaning, definitions and examples

⏱️
Add to dictionary

productivity

 

[ ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

workplace efficiency

Productivity is the measure of how efficiently resources are used to achieve a certain output. It is often a key factor in determining the success of a business or project.

Synonyms

effectiveness, efficiency, output.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
productivity

Use this word to measure how much work is done over a certain period of time, particularly in a business or industrial setting.

  • The team's productivity increased after implementing the new workflow.
  • We are focused on boosting productivity through better training and tools.
efficiency

This term is best used when talking about achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense. It's commonly used in contexts where resources need to be optimized.

  • We need to improve the efficiency of our production process.
  • Energy efficiency is a crucial factor for sustainable development.
effectiveness

This word refers to how well something achieves its intended goal, regardless of the amount of resources used. It's ideal for assessing the success or impact of actions or strategies.

  • The effectiveness of the new marketing campaign exceeded our expectations.
  • We need to evaluate the effectiveness of our current policies.
output

Output refers to the amount of something produced by a person, machine, or industry. It is very literal and quantifiable.

  • The factory's output has doubled in the last year.
  • We need to increase output to meet the rising demand.

Examples of usage

  • Improving productivity in the workplace can lead to increased profits.
  • Time management is essential for maintaining high productivity levels.
  • Productivity can be influenced by factors such as motivation and work environment.
Context #2 | Noun

personal efficiency

Productivity can also refer to an individual's ability to accomplish tasks effectively and efficiently. It is often associated with time management and goal setting.

Synonyms

effectiveness, efficiency, performance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
productivity

When discussing the amount of work or output produced in a given amount of time, often in a work environment or industrial context.

  • The new software aims to increase productivity by 20%
  • High productivity is key to the success of our company
efficiency

When emphasizing the use of minimum resources to achieve a result, often associated with time, energy, or cost savings.

  • Energy efficiency is important for reducing costs
  • The efficiency of the new engine is impressive
effectiveness

When describing how well a task or action achieves its intended outcome, regardless of the resources used.

  • The effectiveness of the new marketing strategy is evident in our increased sales
  • His effectiveness as a leader is unmatched
performance

When evaluating how well someone or something is doing in a specific role or task, often used in a broader context such as employees, machines, or systems.

  • Her performance during the project was outstanding
  • We need to review the performance of our new equipment

Examples of usage

  • Setting daily goals can help improve personal productivity.
  • Productivity tools such as to-do lists and calendars can aid in task management.
  • Balancing work and personal life is important for overall productivity.

Translations

Translations of the word "productivity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 produtividade

🇮🇳 उत्पादकता

🇩🇪 Produktivität

🇮🇩 produktivitas

🇺🇦 продуктивність

🇵🇱 produktywność

🇯🇵 生産性

🇫🇷 productivité

🇪🇸 productividad

🇹🇷 verimlilik

🇰🇷 생산성

🇸🇦 إنتاجية

🇨🇿 produktivita

🇸🇰 produktívnosť

🇨🇳 生产力

🇸🇮 produktivnost

🇮🇸 afkastageta

🇰🇿 өнімділік

🇬🇪 პროდუქტიულობა

🇦🇿 məhsuldarlıq

🇲🇽 productividad

Etymology

The word 'productivity' originated from the Latin word 'productivus', meaning 'able to produce'. The concept of productivity has been studied and valued throughout history, with a focus on optimizing resource utilization and output. In the modern context, productivity plays a crucial role in various aspects of life, from business operations to personal development.

See also: byproduct, prod, product, production, productively, productiveness, products, unproductiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,131, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.