COUNTERPRODUCTIVE Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

counterproductive

adjective

ˌkau̇n-tər-prə-ˈdək-tiv

Definition of counterproductive

as in unsuccessful

not producing the desired result harsh disciplinary measures that prove to be counterproductive

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of counterproductive Instead of counterproductive regulations, Florida should be lifting rules off. — Erika Donalds, Sun Sentinel, 23 Sep. 2026 Future work could seek to understand other results, like finding out exactly when this type of interference from above becomes counterproductive, or what the long-term effects of managers taking more of a hands-on role with sales might be. — Daniel E. Chavez, The Conversation, 22 Sep. 2026 Those who do play with a single-hander, like Tsitsipas, Italy’s Lorenzo Musetti or Austria’s Lilli Tagger inspire a kind of fascination as to why anyone would go down a path that has become so unusual and supposedly counterproductive. — Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026 Hobart junior Miles White has learned to rein in his emotions, particularly when those can be counterproductive. — Michael Osipoff, Chicago Tribune, 11 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for counterproductive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for counterproductive

Adjective

Dean Riley, 62, was pronounced dead at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise after lifesaving measures were unsuccessful, according to the coroner’s office.

— Harllie Stevenson, Idaho Statesman, 23 Oct. 2026
While not all lawsuits filed against small businesses are valid, even an unsuccessful lawsuit can cause major business disruptions and result in costly legal fees.

— Kaitlyn Gomez, Miami Herald, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of unsuccessful

Adjective

Groups such as Human Rights Watch, Freedom House, Access Now, Article 19 and others have warned that the convention’s human rights safeguards are inefficient.

— Mary Lind, The Conversation, 21 Oct. 2026
States of uncertainty that cannot be resolved can be particularly inefficient.

— Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026

Definition of inefficient

Adjective

Fixing the problem Flexible substrates have uneven surface roughness and varying hydroxyl-group densities, making standard large-area printing techniques ineffective.

— Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 26 Oct. 2026
Fette, a freshman seeing his first significant game action, was Arizona State’s third quarterback of the game, replacing an injured Mikey Keene and an ineffective Cutter Boley.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of ineffective

Browse Nearby Words

counterpoising

counterproductive

counterproposal

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“Counterproductive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/counterproductive. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of counterproductive

adjective

Example Sentences

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