Counterproductive

C1 16+

Pronunciation: /kaʊntərprəˈdʌktɪv/

Definitions of counterproductive

adjective Counterproductive is an adjective that describes something that has the opposite effect of what is intended or desired.

Example Sentences

A1 Skipping breakfast can be counterproductive to your health.

A2 Using too many exclamation marks in an email can be counterproductive.

B1 Implementing unnecessary rules in the workplace can be counterproductive to employee morale.

B2 Spending too much time on minor details can be counterproductive to completing a project on time.

C1 Focusing solely on short-term profits can be counterproductive to long-term business growth.

C2 Ignoring feedback from customers can be counterproductive to improving product quality.

Examples of counterproductive in a Sentence

formal Implementing such drastic changes without proper planning can be counterproductive to the overall success of the project.

informal Skipping meals may seem like a quick way to lose weight, but it can actually be counterproductive in the long run.

slang Staying up all night to study for the exam might seem like a good idea, but it's actually hella counterproductive.

figurative Trying to control every aspect of your life can be counterproductive, sometimes you just need to go with the flow.

Grammatical Forms of counterproductive

past tense

counterproductived

plural

counterproductives

comparative

more counterproductive

superlative

most counterproductive

present tense

counterproductive

future tense

will be counterproductive

perfect tense

have counterproductived

continuous tense

is counterproductiving

singular

counterproductive

positive degree

counterproductive

infinitive

to counterproductive

gerund

counterproductiving

participle

counterproductived

Origin and Evolution of counterproductive

First Known Use: 1907 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The word 'counterproductive' originated from the combination of the prefix 'counter-' meaning against or opposite, and the word 'productive' meaning capable of producing or yielding results.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe actions or behaviors that hinder or obstruct productivity, the term 'counterproductive' has evolved to encompass any actions or behaviors that have a negative impact on achieving desired goals or outcomes.