Counterproductive — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adjective /ˌkau̇n-tər-prə-ˈdək-tiv/ coun·ter·pro·duc·tive

Meaning & Definition of Counterproductive

Counterproductive (adjective)

  1. tending to hinder the attainment of a desired goal

Counterproductive (adjective) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. not producing the desired result

    "harsh disciplinary measures that prove to be counterproductive"

    similar: feckless, hamstrung, ineffective, ineffectual, inefficacious, inefficient, inexpedient
    related: abortive, bootless, fruitless, futile, nonproductive, pointless, profitless, unavailing, unproductive, unprofitable, unsuccessful, useless, worthless
    opposite: effective, effectual, efficacious, efficient, expedient, operant, ultraefficient
    near: availing, beneficial, helpful, productive, profitable, successful, useful, worthwhile

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Counterproductive

The most common words with a similar meaning to Counterproductive:

feckless, hamstrung, ineffective, ineffectual, inefficacious, inefficient, inexpedient

Antonyms & Opposite Words for Counterproductive

Words with the opposite meaning of Counterproductive:

effective, effectual, efficacious, efficient, expedient, operant, ultraefficient

Related Words for Counterproductive

abortive, bootless, fruitless, futile, nonproductive, pointless, profitless, unavailing, unproductive, unprofitable, unsuccessful, useless, worthless

Near Antonyms of Counterproductive

availing, beneficial, helpful, productive, profitable, successful, useful, worthwhile

Origin & Etymology of Counterproductive

First known use: 1959

Frequently Asked Questions about Counterproductive

What does "Counterproductive" mean?

"Counterproductive" means tending to hinder the attainment of a desired goal. As an adjective, it is defined as: tending to hinder the attainment of a desired goal.

What is another word for "Counterproductive"?

Other words for "Counterproductive" include feckless, hamstrung, ineffective, ineffectual, inefficacious, inefficient and inexpedient. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Counterproductive" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Counterproductive"?

There are 20 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Counterproductive". Common alternatives include feckless, hamstrung, ineffective, ineffectual, inefficacious, inefficient and inexpedient.

What is the opposite of "Counterproductive"?

Antonyms of "Counterproductive" include effective, effectual, efficacious, efficient, expedient, operant and ultraefficient. Near antonyms include availing, beneficial, helpful and productive.

How do you use "Counterproductive" in a sentence?

Examples of "Counterproductive" in a sentence: "harsh disciplinary measures that prove to be counterproductive".

Is "Counterproductive" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Counterproductive" is an adjective.

How do you pronounce "Counterproductive"?

"Counterproductive" is pronounced /ˌkau̇n-tər-prə-ˈdək-tiv/ and divided into syllables as coun·ter·pro·duc·tive.

What is the origin of the word "Counterproductive"?

First known use: 1959.