inefficient
adjective
in·ef·fi·cient
ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shənt 
: not efficient: such as
a
: wasteful of time or energy
inefficient operating procedures
b
: incapable, incompetent
an inefficient worker
c
: not producing the effect intended or desired
inefficient
noun
inefficiently
adverb
Synonyms
Examples of inefficient in a Sentence
The delivery system was very inefficient.
an inefficient use of fuel
Recent Examples on the Web
Other issues with the existing building include an inefficient layout, small classrooms and narrow, congested hallways.
—
Alec Johnson, Journal Sentinel, 21 Nov. 2024
Mature Businesses: Operate, Build, Operate, Experiment Mature companies typically face challenges related to inefficient processes and time management.
—Agur Jõgi, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
Last season, his first with the Wizards, Poole's 3-point shooting was woefully inefficient.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2024
Their inefficient use of resources creates a ripple effect that hinders growth, stifles innovation and distorts markets.
—Robert Gorin, WWD, 30 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for inefficient 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Alec Johnson, Journal Sentinel, 21 Nov. 2024
Mature Businesses: Operate, Build, Operate, Experiment Mature companies typically face challenges related to inefficient processes and time management.
—Agur Jõgi, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
Last season, his first with the Wizards, Poole's 3-point shooting was woefully inefficient.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2024
Their inefficient use of resources creates a ripple effect that hinders growth, stifles innovation and distorts markets.
—Robert Gorin, WWD, 30 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for inefficient
Dictionary Entries Near inefficient
Cite this Entry
“Inefficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficient. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
inefficient
adjective
in·ef·fi·cient
ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ənt
1
: not producing the effect expected or desired
inefficient regulations
2
: wasteful of time or energy
inefficient procedures
especially
: accomplishing little relative to the time spent or effort expended
an inefficient worker
inefficiently
adverb
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share