# counterproductive

/ˈkaʊntɝpɹəˌdəktɪv/ (US) · /kˌaʊntəpɹədˈʌktɪv/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/counterproductive
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

having the opposite effect of what you want. You use this when an action that is supposed to help actually makes a situation worse.

For teachers: producing an effect that is contrary to the intended purpose or desired result. Often used to describe policies, habits, or strategies that hinder progress.

## Examples

- Working through the night is often counterproductive because you make more mistakes.
- The manager realized that micromanaging the team was counterproductive, as it lowered morale and slowed down production.
- While the new security measures were intended to streamline the entry process, they proved counterproductive by creating significant bottlenecks at the main gates during peak hours.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows a linking verb like 'be', 'become', or 'prove'.

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