is extremely counterproductive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is extremely counterproductive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or approach that has the opposite effect of what is intended, often hindering progress or success. Example: "Implementing such strict regulations without proper training is extremely counterproductive to our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"It is extremely counterproductive.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Combatting extremism requires great specificity which, taken to its general extremes, would be extremely counterproductive, thus, allowing the extremists to win in extreme fashion.

Huffington Post

"While covert behind-the-scenes donor pressure on the Ugandan government has been useful in the past," said Dr. Rahul Rao, a lecturer at the Center for International Studies and Diplomacy in London, "overt pressure can be extremely counterproductive".

The New York Times

The United States has warned European governments against supporting a Palestinian bid for enhanced status at the United Nations, saying such a move "would be extremely counterproductive" and threatening "significant negative consequences" for the Palestinian Authority, including financial sanctions.

The Guardian

Last month, a US memorandum warned European governments against supporting the Palestinian bid, saying such a move "would be extremely counterproductive" and threatening "significant negative consequences" for the Palestinian Authority, including financial sanctions.

The Guardian

Closing the door on Ukraine would be extremely counterproductive and dangerous.

Huffington Post

For this reason, McChrystal's comments were extremely counterproductive and undermined both his and the administration's effectiveness.

Huffington Post

That's extremely counterproductive.

WikiHow

"It's also extremely counterproductive if your interest is actually in reducing his influence".

Huffington Post

An extremely counterproductive development has been the touting of the working definition of antisemitism drawn up by the European Monitoring Centre on Racism and Xenophobia (now the Federal Rights Agency) as a document carrying virtually legal force.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expecting these women to miraculously get their acts together and to emerge from prison fully functional and ready to face the world when they have been denied the most basic rehabilitative services is ridiculous and counterproductive – as the extremely high rates of recidivism among women prisoners in New Hampshire clearly demonstrate (pdf).

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific policy or action, clearly articulate the intended goal and explain how the counterproductive element undermines it. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

While "extremely" adds emphasis, using it too frequently can weaken your writing. Consider using stronger verbs or more descriptive language to convey the same meaning more effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is extremely counterproductive" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, describing a subject's attribute of being contrary to its intended purpose. It modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that something has an adverse effect. According to Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Opinion

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is extremely counterproductive" is a grammatically correct and useful expression for describing actions or policies that have the opposite of their intended effect. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While it appears most frequently in News & Media and Opinion contexts, it is suitable for formal and professional communication. When using this phrase, be sure to clearly articulate the intended goal and how the counterproductive element undermines it. Alternatives such as "is highly detrimental" or "is very self-defeating" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Avoid overuse of intensifiers to maintain writing clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is highly detrimental

Emphasizes the damaging or harmful nature of something.

is very self-defeating

Highlights that the action ultimately harms the actor's own interests.

is remarkably unproductive

Focuses on the lack of positive results or output.

is severely disadvantageous

Stresses the negative impact on someone's position or chances.

is acutely unhelpful

Highlights the lack of assistance provided, potentially worsening the situation.

is notably adverse

Indicates a significantly negative or unfavorable effect.

is strikingly ineffective

Emphasizes the failure to achieve the desired outcome.

is exceptionally wasteful

Highlights the unnecessary expenditure of resources without benefit.

is unusually thwarting

Stresses the action of preventing someone from accomplishing something.

is surprisingly obstructive

Focuses on the hindrance or blockage of progress.

FAQs

How can I use "is extremely counterproductive" in a sentence?

You can use "is extremely counterproductive" to describe actions or policies that have the opposite of the intended effect. For example, "Implementing these regulations without proper training "is extremely counterproductive" to our goals".

What are some alternatives to saying "is extremely counterproductive"?

Alternatives include "is highly detrimental", "is very self-defeating", or "is remarkably unproductive", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "is extremely counterproductive" in formal writing?

Yes, "is extremely counterproductive" is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure the context supports the strong emphasis. In some cases, a more nuanced phrase might be more appropriate.

What makes something "extremely counterproductive"?

Something is "extremely counterproductive" when its implementation actively hinders the achievement of a desired outcome, often leading to unintended negative consequences or wasted effort.