inefficiency

noun

in·​ef·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē How to pronounce inefficiency (audio)
plural inefficiencies
Synonyms of inefficiencynext
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
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 company said the pilot is dealing with the ongoing nationwide problem of inadequate truck parking, which leads to driver fatigue, operational inefficiencies and safety risks on major freight routes. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 6 Oct. 2026 As businesses evolve, outdated skills create bottlenecks, workarounds and inefficiencies that are often mistaken for workload issues. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 2 Oct. 2026 Donovan gently criticized Buzelis’ propensity to lean into his midrange jumper, noting that the inefficiency of the shot had driven it out of most players’ shooting profiles, barring a few exceptions such as DeMar DeRozan. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 1 Oct. 2026 The web of overlapping anti-poverty programs is difficult for people to navigate and contributes to losses from inefficiency. — Editorial Board, Washington Post, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inefficiency

Word History

First Known Use

1749, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inefficiency was in 1749

Rhymes for inefficiency

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Browse Nearby Words

inefficacy
inefficiency
inefficient
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Cite this Entry

“Inefficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficiency. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inefficiency

noun
in·​ef·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌin-ə-ˈfish-ən-sē How to pronounce inefficiency (audio)
plural inefficiencies
1
: the quality or state of being inefficient
2
: something that is inefficient

More from Merriam-Webster on inefficiency

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