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.
Downtime, inefficiencies and security risks all have direct financial implications, but IT is rarely scrutinized for its profitability. Raja Walia, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 With all due respect to Castle, his value league-wide is more mixed, as some executives love his upside, whereas others worry about his inefficiency as a shooter long-term. Sam Vecenie, New York Times, 16 May 2025 Shooting struggles and inefficiency caused by athletic limitations had scared scouts off. Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 13 May 2025 Instead, the city should target waste and inefficiencies elsewhere. Phillip Molnar, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 May 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inefficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficiency. Accessed 20 May. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!