inefficiency

American  

[in-i-fish-uhn-see] / ˌɪn ɪˈfɪʃ ən si /

noun

inefficiencies plural

1. the quality or condition of being inefficient; lack of efficiency.

2. an instance of inefficiency.

   This work is riddled with inefficiencies.

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• inefficiencies
  plural

Etymology

Origin of inefficiency

First recorded in 1740–50; ineffici(ent) + -ency

Example Sentences

However, when the goal is to increase energy expenditure and reduce fat accumulation, this type of inefficiency can actually work in the body's favor.

From Science Daily • Jul. 3, 2026

But the inefficiency sent his pitch count past 80 before he exited with runners on first and second in the fifth.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 2026

Board members can only be removed for cause, meaning malfeasance, inefficiency, or neglect in their duties.

From Slate • Apr. 24, 2026

But for financial institutions and investors, the cumulative effect is a more complex operating environment marked by higher counterparty risk, regulatory divergence, and capital inefficiency.

From Barron's • Mar. 4, 2026

Because of those laws, not much foreign beer gets exported to Germany, and because of inefficiency and high prices much less of that wonderful German beer than you would otherwise expect gets sold abroad.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

Related Words

• carelessness
• disorganization
• inability