counterproductive
adjective
coun·ter·pro·duc·tive
ˌkau̇n-tər-prə-ˈdək-tiv 
: tending to hinder the attainment of a desired goal
violence as a means to achieve an end is counterproductive—
W. E. Brock born 1930
W. E. Brock born 1930Synonyms
Examples of counterproductive in a Sentence
His uncontrollable anger is very counterproductive to his attempt at saving his marriage.
harsh disciplinary measures that prove to be counterproductive
Recent Examples on the Web
While the intent may be to ensure quality, consistency or adherence to procedures, the effects can be counterproductive.
—Vikram Joshi, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025
But dismantling current restrictions would be counterproductive.
—Colin H. Kahl, Foreign Affairs, 17 Jan. 2025
Tearing down the team for a lottery pick during Ovi’s final contract was counterproductive.
—Shayna Goldman, The Athletic, 16 Jan. 2025
That would be counterproductive and won’t contribute to the young person’s growth and learning.
—Lauryn Higgins, Parents, 16 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for counterproductive 
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Vikram Joshi, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025
But dismantling current restrictions would be counterproductive.
—Colin H. Kahl, Foreign Affairs, 17 Jan. 2025
Tearing down the team for a lottery pick during Ovi’s final contract was counterproductive.
—Shayna Goldman, The Athletic, 16 Jan. 2025
That would be counterproductive and won’t contribute to the young person’s growth and learning.
—Lauryn Higgins, Parents, 16 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for counterproductive
Dictionary Entries Near counterproductive
Cite this Entry
“Counterproductive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/counterproductive. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.
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