inefficiency

noun

in·​ef·​fi·​cien·​cy ˌi-nə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē How to pronounce inefficiency (audio)
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
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.
Congress should not go out of its way to create greater inefficiency in a private sector that has made the U.S. economy the envy of the world. John L. Mica, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 July 2025 Turning Frustration into Founding Each of these healthcare founders started not with a business plan but with a clear understanding of the frustrations and inefficiencies inherent in their daily work. Jaime Catmull, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025 The Hart Lane location is rated a 2.6 on Google, with the majority of reviews citing long wait times, inefficiency and disorganization. Laura L. Davis, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 Major Medicaid bill moves forward Top Republican leadership are convinced there could be enough inefficiencies and abusers of the system that rooting them out could make a big dent in Indiana's growing Medicaid costs. Brittany Carloni, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Inefficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inefficiency. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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