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inefficient

in·ef·fi·cient

inefficient

 
pronunciation:
In fI shnt
features:
Word Parts
part of speech: adjective
definition: taking too much time or supplies to produce or reach results.
The use of separate cars for travel to work is an inefficient use of energy compared with traveling by bus or subway.
antonyms:
economical, efficient
derivation: inefficiently (adv.)
Word Parts  About this feature
The word inefficient contains the following part:
in-2 Latin prefix that means not, without
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The prefix in-2 occurs in Latin loanwords and attaches to Latinate bases. The bases of most words prefixed with in-2 are independent adjectives (inadvertent, incognizant), although the base adjective may no longer be in widespread use (as with incessant ). Exceptions include iniquitous and indignant . -in2 has multiple forms, as the 'n' sound in in-2 assimilates to the initial sound of the base to which it is attached. See the assimilated forms ig-, il-2, im-2, and ir-2.