inefficiency
noun [ C or U ]
uk/ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃənsi/ usplural inefficienciesa situation in which someone or something fails to use resources such as time, materials, or labour in an effective way:
The bank chief said that he would not allow or tolerate inefficiency and at the same time would ensure that honest and hard work were properly rewarded.
But critics say the system is full of waste and inefficiency.
inefficiencies in sth She's charged with eliminating inefficiencies in state government.
Compare
efficiency
See also
market inefficiency
technical inefficiency
x-inefficiency