inefficiency

noun

in·​ef·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē How to pronounce inefficiency (audio)
plural inefficiencies
1
: the quality or state of being inefficient
2
: something that is inefficient

Examples of inefficiency in a Sentence

The candidate blamed her opponent for the local government's inefficiency. She claims that money can be saved by reducing inefficiencies.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
This misallocation of resources results in productive inefficiency and a deadweight loss — a reduction in overall economic welfare that benefits neither producers nor consumers. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025 Yes, waste and inefficiency exists in government — as in any large organization. Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 4 Mar. 2025 Organizations that are poorly aligned contribute to $8.9 trillion in annual economic losses due to inefficiencies caused by a lack of collaboration and transparency. Jason Phillips, USA TODAY, 3 Mar. 2025 There were turnovers, inefficiency in the paint and a halftime lead that slowly slipped away, leading to a back-and-forth final few minutes. Maddie Hartley, Kansas City Star, 2 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inefficiency

Word History

First Known Use

1749, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inefficiency was in 1749

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Cite this Entry

“Inefficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficiency. Accessed 14 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

inefficiency

noun
in·​ef·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ən-sē How to pronounce inefficiency (audio)
plural inefficiencies
1
: the quality or state of being inefficient
2
: something that is inefficient

More from Merriam-Webster on inefficiency

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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