Definitions

inefficiency

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

NOUN

incompetence

Synonyms

STRONGEST

carelessness disorganization inability

STRONG

incapability wastefulness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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

From Slate • Apr. 24, 2026

Scheutz compared this inefficiency to everyday AI tools.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

That made centers a potential inefficiency in the market.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

Government inefficiency still plagues the country, and it has the worst pollution on the planet.

From Barron's • Feb. 18, 2026

“It made me feel good that there was such inefficiency to this market,” he said.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis