is inefficient

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is inefficient" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that does not operate effectively or is not productive. Example: "The current system is inefficient, leading to delays in project completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is inefficient.

The New Yorker

Still, it is inefficient.

The Economist

It is inefficient.

The New York Times

And it is inefficient.

The New York Times

Its vast network is inefficient.

The Economist

Everything we're doing is inefficient.

The New York Times

Without oligarchs, it is inefficient.

The Guardian

It is inefficient, but powerful.

The New York Times

Advertising to an unknown audience is inefficient.

The Economist

In Victoria much irrigation is inefficient.

The Economist

Sitting while working, he believes, is inefficient.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or system that "is inefficient", provide specific examples to illustrate the inefficiency. This makes your critique more persuasive and actionable.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something "is inefficient" without providing context or metrics. Without supporting evidence, the statement remains a vague and potentially unconvincing assertion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is inefficient" serves as a predicate adjective, describing a subject's lack of efficiency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid way to express that something does not operate effectively. Examples in the provided data show it used to critique systems, processes, and even personal habits.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is inefficient" is a common and versatile way to express that something lacks efficiency, whether it be a system, process, or method. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, the phrase serves to criticize or evaluate, highlighting the need for improvement. When using "is inefficient", provide specific examples or quantifiable data to strengthen your argument and avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives such as "is wasteful" or "is unproductive" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not efficient

This is a direct negation, simply stating the absence of efficiency.

is unproductive

Focuses on the lack of output or results from a process or action.

is wasteful

Highlights the unnecessary consumption of resources.

is ineffective

Emphasizes the failure to achieve the desired outcome or effect.

is not cost-effective

Specifically points out the unfavorable relationship between cost and benefit.

is resource-intensive

Stresses the high demand for resources, often implying inefficiency.

is poorly optimized

Suggests that a system or process could be significantly improved.

is sub-optimal

Indicates performance below the best possible level.

is uneconomical

Focuses on financial inefficiency or lack of profitability.

is a bottleneck

Describes a point of congestion or obstruction that slows down progress.

FAQs

How can I replace the phrase "is inefficient" in a sentence?

Consider alternatives like "is wasteful", "is unproductive", or "is ineffective" to convey similar meanings with slightly different emphasis.

What does it mean when something is described as "is inefficient"?

When something "is inefficient", it means it doesn't use resources (time, energy, materials) in the best possible way, often resulting in waste or reduced output.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "is inefficient"?

The phrase "is inefficient" is appropriate in a variety of contexts, including discussions about business processes, scientific experiments, government operations, or personal habits. It is a versatile way to point out a lack of optimal performance.

How can I make a stronger argument when claiming something "is inefficient"?

Support your claim with data, metrics, or specific examples. Instead of just saying a process "is inefficient", quantify the inefficiency by stating how much time or resources are wasted as a result.