How to say "inefficient" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 非効率ひこうりつna-adjectiveCovers 'inefficient' as in wasteful, badly organized methods or systems; it is the noun 'inefficiency' and also works attributively. Typical context: criticizing a slow, wasteful workflow. A less common choice for 'inefficient'.
- 非効率的ひこうりつてきna-adjectiveThe same sense in adjectival form: describing a method, system, or process as inefficient. Use it where an adjective is needed. Also a less common way to say 'inefficient'.
Both words cover the same sense of 'inefficient' — wasteful or badly organized — so the choice is grammatical: 非効率 is the noun 'inefficiency', 非効率的 its adjectival form; both are less common renderings.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
