inefficiency
UK: ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənsi | US: ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənsi
n. the state or quality of being inefficient; failure to achieve maximum productivity or effectiveness.
The word "inefficiency" emerged in the early 19th century by adding the negative prefix in- to "efficiency." The root efficiency traces back to Latin efficientia, reflecting the concept of "productive output." The prefix in- flips the meaning to denote a lack of productivity or wasted effort, aligning with its modern usage in critiques of systems or processes.
The project's delays were caused by bureaucratic inefficiency.
Energy inefficiency in old buildings leads to higher utility costs.
The manager addressed the team's inefficiency by streamlining workflows.
Critics blamed the government's inefficiency for the slow disaster response.
Technological upgrades reduced inefficiency in the manufacturing plant.