# inefficiency

/ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənsi/ (US) · /ɪnɪfˈɪʃənsi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inefficiency
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the quality of not being able to do something well or quickly. It means you are using more time, money, or energy than you should.

For teachers: the state or quality of not producing the maximum output from the minimum input. Often used to describe systems or processes that waste resources.

## Examples

- The new software helps reduce the inefficiency of our old system.
- The company's main problem is the inefficiency of its supply chain, which causes delays and high costs.
- Economists argue that the inefficiency of the current tax code discourages small business growth by creating a complex web of deductions and penalties.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.