Underutilization: meaning, definitions and examples

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underutilization

[ˌʌndərjuːtɪlaɪˈzeɪʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in business

The state of not using something to its full potential or capacity, especially in a business or organizational context.

Synonyms

underemployment, underexploitation, underuse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
underutilization	This word is used when talking about resources, talents, or opportunities that are not being fully utilized. It is often used in a business or academic context. The underutilization of the company's new software is causing significant productivity losses. There is a clear underutilization of research funds in our department.
underuse	This term is appropriate when something is not used as much as it should be. It can apply to almost anything, such as facilities, tools, or substances. The gym experienced significant underuse during the summer months. There is a noticeable underuse of this community center.
underemployment	This term refers to a situation where people are employed in jobs that do not fully utilize their skills or provide them with sufficient working hours. It is commonly used when discussing labor markets and economic conditions. Many college graduates face underemployment, working in positions that do not require a degree. The pandemic has led to a rise in underemployment, with many workers unable to find full-time work.
underexploitation	This is often used in the context of natural resources or market opportunities that are not being fully exploited or tapped into. The underexploitation of renewable energy sources is a major concern for environmentalists. There has been an underexploitation of the rural tourism market in this region.

Examples of usage

Underutilization of resources can lead to inefficiency and decreased productivity.
Many companies struggle with underutilization of their workforce during certain seasons.
The key to success is to identify and address areas of underutilization within the organization.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in economics

The failure to make full use of economic resources available in an economy.

Synonyms

undercapacity, underemployment, underuse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
underutilization	Describes a scenario where resources, capabilities, or services are not being used to their full potential. Often used in formal or academic settings. The underutilization of renewable energy sources is a missed opportunity for reducing carbon emissions
underemployment	Describes a situation where people are working in jobs that do not fully utilize their skills, education, or availability, usually used in an economic or social context. Despite having a degree in engineering, he is facing underemployment, working part-time at a retail store
underuse	Refers to something not being used as much as it should be. Can be applied to various situations such as facilities, services, or technology, and is often used in a general context. The underuse of the community center has led to its deterioration over the years
undercapacity	Refers to a situation where an organization, system, or facility is operating below its maximum capacity. Commonly used in manufacturing, transportation, and logistics. The factory is running at undercapacity, producing only half of its potential output

Examples of usage

Underutilization of labor can result in higher unemployment rates.
The underutilization of machinery in the manufacturing sector has impacted economic growth.
Policies need to be implemented to address the issue of underutilization in the economy.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The prefix 'under-' means beneath or less, while 'utilization' comes from 'utilize', which means to use something.
The word links the concept of not maximizing resources or tools available.
The term has emerged particularly in modern discussions around economics and efficiency.

Economics

In business contexts, underutilization refers to resources like employees, machinery, or facilities not being fully engaged in productive activities.
High levels of underutilization can lead to increased costs and lower profits for companies.
Addressing underutilization is vital for boosting economic growth and optimizing resource allocation.

Education

In educational settings, underutilization can describe not fully engaging with learning resources or technology, which can impact student outcomes.
Teachers often face challenges with underutilization of teaching aids, which could enhance the learning experience.
Promotion of digital tools in classrooms aims to reduce underutilization of resources that can aid in student learning.

Psychology

Feeling underutilized in the workplace can lead to decreased job satisfaction and morale among employees.
Underutilization of personal skills can cause frustration and a sense of wasted potential in individuals.
Psychological effects of underutilization often include burnout due to unchallenging tasks.

Technology

In tech industries, underutilization highlights the gap between available innovations and their actual use in real-world applications.
Advanced software tools often experience underutilization when users are unaware of their full capabilities.
In this digital age, combating underutilization of tech resources can lead to enhanced productivity and creativity.

Translations

Translations of the word "underutilization" in other languages:

🇵🇹 subutilização

🇮🇳 अल्प उपयोग

🇩🇪 Unterauslastung

🇮🇩 penggunaan yang kurang

🇺🇦 недостатнє використання

🇵🇱 niedostateczne wykorzystanie

🇯🇵 未活用

🇫🇷 sous-utilisation

🇪🇸 infrautilización

🇹🇷 yetersiz kullanım

🇰🇷 미활용

🇸🇦 قلة الاستخدام

🇨🇿 nedostatečné využití

🇸🇰 nedostatočné využitie

🇨🇳 未充分利用

🇸🇮 neizkoriščenost

🇮🇸 vanmat

🇰🇿 жеткіліксіз пайдалану

🇬🇪 არასრულად გამოყენება

🇦🇿 az istifadə

🇲🇽 infrautilización