inefficacy

noun

in·​ef·​fi·​ca·​cy (ˌ)i-ˈne-fi-kə-sē How to pronounce inefficacy (audio)
: lack of power to produce a desired effect

Examples of inefficacy in a Sentence

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.
The work is less a critique of AA’s methods than a wry commentary on art and art history’s inefficacy in remedying profound societal ills, especially those affecting Indigenous communities. Michaëla De Lacaze Mohrmann, Artforum, 1 Jan. 2025 The inefficacy of Trump’s approach is borne out not only by macroeconomic readings but also by sector-by-sector data. Steven Tian, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2024 Frustrated by conventional treatments’ inefficacy, Christina discovered Gronich’s clinic and benefited from her comprehensive, whole-body approach to skincare. WWD, 2 July 2024 When my depression hasn’t improved or worsened, providers have abruptly discharged me from their care without a treatment plan, or simply began treating me worse, as though the inefficacy of their therapies could only stem from my noncompliance or bad vibes. Maria Yagoda, Vogue, 25 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for inefficacy 

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin inefficacia, from Latin inefficac-, inefficax inefficacious, from in- + efficac-, efficax efficacious

First Known Use

circa 1615, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inefficacy was circa 1615

Dictionary Entries Near inefficacy

Cite this Entry

“Inefficacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficacy. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.

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