inefficiency
noun
in·ef·fi·cien·cy
ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē 
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
Then identify areas that will improve efficiency, like identifying waste, duplication and inefficiencies, freeze or limit hiring and consolidate departments.
—
David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2026
Bench production helped keep Atlanta within reach early, but the starters' inefficiency proved too much to overcome.
—Christopher Harris, CBS News, 4 May 2026
Before turning to new taxes, the County has a responsibility to evaluate how current funds are being allocated, identify inefficiencies and ensure that critical services like hospitals and clinics are prioritized within existing resources.
—Steve Scauzillo, Daily News, 4 May 2026
More government means more waste, more inefficiency and more fraud, hence higher costs.
—Star Parker, Boston Herald, 2 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for inefficiency
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David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2026
Bench production helped keep Atlanta within reach early, but the starters' inefficiency proved too much to overcome.
—Christopher Harris, CBS News, 4 May 2026
Before turning to new taxes, the County has a responsibility to evaluate how current funds are being allocated, identify inefficiencies and ensure that critical services like hospitals and clinics are prioritized within existing resources.
—Steve Scauzillo, Daily News, 4 May 2026
More government means more waste, more inefficiency and more fraud, hence higher costs.
—Star Parker, Boston Herald, 2 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for inefficiency
Cite this Entry
“Inefficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficiency. Accessed 8 May. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
inefficiency
noun
in·ef·fi·cien·cy
ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ən-sē
plural inefficiencies
1
: the quality or state of being inefficient
2
: something that is inefficient
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