Underutilisation: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in formal contexts to describe a situation where something, such as resources or skills, is not being used to its full potential.

• The underutilisation of the office space has led to increased operational costs.
• The company addressed the underutilisation of their software by providing additional training to employees.

This word generally refers to situations where people are working in jobs that do not fully use their skills, qualifications, or time. It often has a negative connotation.

• Many recent graduates face underemployment as they struggle to find jobs that match their qualifications.
• The economic downturn has resulted in significant underemployment across various sectors.

This is a more general term that can be used to describe anything not being used sufficiently. It can be applied in various contexts, including healthcare, technology, and everyday items.

• The underuse of available technology has led to inefficiencies in the healthcare system.
• The public park sees significant underuse during the winter months.

This term is commonly used in industrial or logistical contexts to describe equipment, facilities, or systems that are operating below their maximum production capability.

• The factory is running at undercapacity due to a shortage of raw materials.
• The transportation network is inefficient due to undercapacity during peak hours.

This word is usually used in professional or technical contexts to describe the inefficient use of resources or potential. It often refers to a system, facility, or workforce that is not being employed to its full potential.

• The underutilisation of our factory's machinery is causing a decrease in overall productivity.
• Underutilisation of the available healthcare services can lead to longer waiting times for patients.

Underemployment is used to describe a situation where workers are not employed to their full skills, capabilities, or availability. It usually indicates a mismatch between the worker's qualifications and the job they are doing, often resulting in economic inefficiencies and personal dissatisfaction.

• Despite having a degree in engineering, John is facing underemployment working as a sales assistant.
• The rise in underemployment among graduates highlights the need for better job matching.

Underuse is a general term that can be used in various contexts. It means that something is not being used as much as it could or should be. This term is often neutral, but it can imply waste or lost potential.

• The underuse of the public library has prompted local officials to launch a new community engagement program.
• This hiking trail is beautiful, but it's underused even during peak season.

This term is commonly used in the context of production or services to describe a situation where the current output or capability does not meet the potential maximum. It often highlights that a facility or resource could handle more work than it currently does.

• Our plant is operating at undercapacity due to a shortage of skilled workers.
• The school is running undercapacity because enrollments have dropped.