Inefficiency Meaning
/ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənsi/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounLack of efficiency or effectiveness.
Sentence Examples
Algeria is known for its bureaucracy and inefficiency.
Algerians are tired of bureaucracy and inefficiency.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms:
None
Antonyms:
CEFR Practice Quiz
The factory's ____ caused unusually high costs and extremely slow production.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The company's high level of ____ was blamed on its outdated computers and poor management.
Word Origin & History
Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *né Proto-Indo-European *n̥- Proto-Italic *n̥- Latin in-bor. Middle English in- English in- English efficiency English inefficiency From in- + efficiency.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"Yet only 21 percent of adult TANF recipients are working today, largely because of these inefficiencies and loopholes."
— 2024 September 23, Sam Adolphsen, Paige Terryberry, “WITH REFORM, TANF CAN LIFT AMERICAN FAMILIES OUT OF DEPENDENCY”, in Foundation for Government Accountability, page 5:
"“An organization’s reputational integrity is its greatest currency. When you compromise that, you have lost the loyalty and trust of your employees,” Wahler said. “His approach is going to increase inefficiency by creating an environment marked by instability, a lack of trust and divisiveness.”"
— 2025 February 27, Jeanne Sahadi, “DOGE’s heavy-handed approach is not likely to make the government more efficient”, in CNN:
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The factory's ____ caused unusually high costs and extremely slow production.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The company's high level of ____ was blamed on its outdated computers and poor management.