C1nounformalbusinesswork
US/ˌɪn.ɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/
UK/ˌɪn.ɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/
failure to use time, money or effort well, so that some is wasted
In context
Long meetings are a major source of inefficiency in the office.
The report blamed bureaucratic inefficiency for the delays.
Old machines caused serious inefficiency in the factory.
Words that go with inefficiency
adjective + noun
- bureaucratic inefficiencyBureaucratic inefficiency slows every project.
- economic inefficiencyPrice controls can lead to economic inefficiency.
verb + noun
- reduce inefficiencyThe new software should reduce inefficiency.
- eliminate inefficiencyThe manager tried to eliminate inefficiency in the supply chain.
- cause inefficiencyPoor planning can cause inefficiency.
noun + preposition
- source of inefficiencyPaperwork is a common source of inefficiency.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The inefficient of the system is obvious.Correct: The inefficiency of the system is obvious.