not working effectively

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not working effectively" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation, process, or individual that is not performing to the best of their ability or not achieving desired results. Example: "The current marketing strategy is not working effectively, and we need to reassess our approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

He said: "Things were not working effectively in Doncaster, multi-service agency work was not effective and neither were children's services".

The Guardian

Even the most enthusiastic members of the road lobby would admit that transport in major cities is not working effectively.

The Guardian - Opinion

Imagine that, as an adult, a health problem or argument at home means you are not working effectively.

The Guardian - Opinion

Britain's capitalist economy is not working effectively, even while inequality has surpassed the levels of Edwardian England.

The Guardian - Books

We have seen children once again failed and abused as a result of agencies not working effectively together.

The Guardian

Doctors, campaigners and MPs have warned that the rise in admissions indicated outpatient treatment was not working effectively.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

This investigation shows for the first time (to our knowledge) that the Thai herbal recipe may not work effectively in combination with topical antiseptics as shown by their antagonistic effects against multidrug resistant bacteria.

BioMed Research International

Fever related knowledge propaganda after admitted to hospital did not work effectively to improve the caregivers' understanding and management of fever and an effective way to alleviate 'Fever phobia'.

BMC Pediatrics

At the time, Facebook acknowledged that its procedures had not worked effectively.

The New York Times

However, those control laws may not work effectively if the aeroelastic system involves actuator faults.

Chinese Journal of Aeronautics

In fact, I believe that such a large, sudden increase would not work effectively.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or system that isn't yielding the desired results, use "not working effectively" to clearly communicate the need for improvement or change.

Common error

While "not working effectively" is versatile, avoid overuse in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for stronger, more precise terms like 'inefficient', 'suboptimal', or 'malfunctioning' for greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not working effectively" primarily functions as a descriptive phrase, often acting as a predicate adjective to describe the state or performance of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in describing situations or processes that are not achieving desired results.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "not working effectively" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe situations where something isn't performing as desired. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. It's suitable for various contexts, from news reports to business communications. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, consider using more specific alternatives like "inefficient" or "suboptimal" in formal or technical contexts for greater precision. Remember to avoid overuse and choose the most appropriate term based on the specific nuance you want to convey. The most authoritative sources where it is used are The New York Times, The Guardian and BBC.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not functioning properly

Focuses on the improper or faulty operation of something.

not operating efficiently

Highlights the lack of efficiency in a process or system.

not performing as expected

Emphasizes the failure to meet anticipated performance levels.

failing to deliver results

Stresses the lack of achievement of intended outcomes.

ineffective

A more concise, single-word alternative indicating a lack of effectiveness.

unproductive

Highlights the lack of output or useful work being generated.

not achieving its goals

Specifically points out the failure to reach set objectives.

broken

Implies a state of being damaged or non-functional, often more literal.

malfunctioning

Describes a state of impaired or abnormal function.

suboptimal

Indicates performance that is less than the best or ideal.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "not working effectively"?

When something is described as "not working effectively", it means that it is not producing the desired results or performing as well as it should be. It indicates a need for improvement or change in the approach, method, or system being used.

What are some alternatives to saying "not working effectively"?

You can use alternatives like "not functioning properly", "ineffective", or "suboptimal" depending on the context.

How can I use "not working effectively" in a sentence?

You can say, "The new marketing strategy is "not working effectively", and we need to reassess our approach" or "The current system is "not working effectively", leading to delays and increased costs."

Is it better to say "not working effectively" or "inefficient"?

The choice between "not working effectively" and "inefficient" depends on the context. "Inefficient" focuses specifically on wasted resources, while "not working effectively" is a broader term that encompasses any failure to achieve the desired outcome. Choose "inefficient" when the core issue is resource waste.