it is counterproductive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is counterproductive" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing actions or strategies that hinder progress or have the opposite effect of what is intended. For example, "Implementing strict deadlines without proper resources can be counterproductive." Alternative expressions include "it is ineffective," "it is detrimental," and "it is unhelpful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is counterproductive.

The New York Times

"If there is one, it is counterproductive.

The New York Times

Otherwise, it is counterproductive, he said.

The New York Times

This is inexcusable and it is counterproductive.

The New York Times

"It is counterproductive to the interests of both our countries".

The New York Times

The UNHCR, the UN's refugee agency, thinks it is counterproductive.

The Economist

But he does think banning it is counterproductive.

The Guardian

This situation is not only immoral, it is counterproductive.

The New York Times

But it is counterproductive to reject the good because it is not the best.

Independent

In these circumstances, more deficit reduction is neither necessary nor wise; it is counterproductive.

The New York Times

Critics of the euro zone's austerity push have argued it is counterproductive.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is counterproductive" to clearly and directly express that a particular action or approach is not only failing to achieve its intended goal but is actively hindering progress. This phrase is suitable for formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "it is counterproductive" in situations where the ineffectiveness is self-evident. Overusing this phrase in obvious scenarios can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose. Opt for more direct and concise language when the negative outcome is already clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is counterproductive" functions as a comment or assessment regarding a particular action or strategy. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase is typically used to express disapproval or concern that something is not achieving its intended purpose and may be causing harm.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is counterproductive" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that an action or strategy is hindering progress or causing the opposite of the intended effect. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is versatile, appearing in various contexts ranging from news and media to science and formal business settings. While widely accepted, it's best used when the ineffectiveness isn't entirely obvious. Remember, direct language is key – this phrase should add value, not just state the obvious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is self-defeating

Emphasizes the action undermines its own purpose.

it is unproductive

Highlights the lack of positive results from the action.

it is detrimental

Focuses on the harmful effects of the action.

it is unhelpful

Indicates the action does not provide assistance or benefit.

it is ineffective

Stresses the lack of effectiveness in achieving the intended goal.

it is useless

Highlights the lack of value or purpose in the action.

it is abortive

Focuses on the failure to produce the desired outcome.

it is in vain

Emphasizes the futility of the action.

it backfires

Suggests the action has an unintended and negative consequence.

it is self-frustrating

Implies the action leads to one's own disappointment or failure.

FAQs

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

You can use "it is counterproductive" to describe actions or strategies that are not only ineffective but also actively hindering progress. For example, "Implementing strict deadlines without proper resources, "it is counterproductive"."

What are some alternatives to "it is counterproductive"?

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

Is it better to say "it is counterproductive" or "that is counterproductive"?

Both "it is counterproductive" and "that is counterproductive" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on the context. "It" generally refers to something previously mentioned, while "that" can refer to something more distant or general.

What makes something "counterproductive"?

Something is considered "counterproductive" when it has the opposite effect of what was intended, hindering progress or causing further problems instead of solving them. It suggests that the action is not just ineffective, but actively harmful.