unproductive
UK: ˌʌnprəˈdʌktɪv | US: ˌʌnprəˈdʌktɪv
adj. not producing or capable of producing desired results
adj. failing to achieve economic or creative output
adj. (of land) not yielding agricultural crops
The word "unproductive" combines the prefix "un-" (Old English "un-," meaning "not") with "productive" (from Latin "productivus," meaning "capable of producing"). The prefix negates the root, creating a term that describes inefficiency or lack of output. The Latin root "producere" (to bring forth) evolved through French into English, retaining its core meaning of generating value. The word's structure clearly reflects its opposition to productivity.
The meeting was unproductive, ending without any decisions.
Unproductive soil requires fertilization to support crops.
His unproductive habits led to poor academic performance.
The team discussed unproductive strategies before abandoning them.
Critics called the policy unproductive and wasteful.