inefficient
adjective
in·ef·fi·cient
ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shənt 
: not efficient: such as
a
: wasteful of time or energy
inefficient operating procedures
b
: incapable, incompetent
an inefficient worker
c
: not producing the effect intended or desired
inefficient
noun
inefficiently
adverb
Synonyms
Examples of inefficient in a Sentence
The delivery system was very inefficient.
an inefficient use of fuel
Recent Examples on the Web
The rest of the city’s water is pumped vast distances uphill from sources outside the city, in an incredibly inefficient process, during which around 40% of the water is lost through leaks.
—
Laura Paddison, CNN, 25 Feb. 2024
Because 80 is an inefficient number for the networks.
—Jon Wilner, The Mercury News, 5 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for inefficient 
Laura Paddison, CNN, 25 Feb. 2024
Because 80 is an inefficient number for the networks.
—Jon Wilner, The Mercury News, 5 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for inefficient
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inefficient.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near inefficient
Cite this Entry
“Inefficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficient. Accessed 3 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
inefficient
adjective
in·ef·fi·cient
ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ənt
1
: not producing the effect expected or desired
inefficient regulations
2
: wasteful of time or energy
inefficient procedures
especially
: accomplishing little relative to the time spent or effort expended
an inefficient worker
inefficiently
adverb
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