Efficiency

Definition

Efficiency refers to the ability to achieve a goal or complete a task with the least waste of time, effort, or resources. It is often used to describe processes, systems, or machines that maximize output while minimizing input.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈfɪʃənsi/
• Respelling: ih-FISH-uhn-see

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈfɪʃənsi/
• Respelling: ih-FISH-uhn-see

The pronunciation of "efficiency" is consistent in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "efficiency" comes from the Latin word "efficientia," derived from "efficiens," meaning "effective" or "accomplishing." The root of the word is from the Latin verb "efficere," meaning "to accomplish" or "to bring about." It entered the English language in the late 16th century, initially referring to the ability to produce a desired effect.

Derivatives

• Efficient (adjective)
• Efficiently (adverb)
• Inefficiency (noun)
• Efficientize (verb)
• Overefficiency (noun)

Synonyms

• Productivity
• Effectiveness
• Competence

Antonyms

• Inefficiency
• Wastefulness
• Incompetence

Usage

The word "efficiency" is widely used in both business and technical contexts to describe systems, processes, or methods that minimize waste and maximize productivity. It can apply to anything from manufacturing operations to time management in daily tasks.

Related Terms

• Optimization: The act of making something as effective or functional as possible.
• Streamlining: The process of simplifying or making a process more efficient.
• Proficiency: A high degree of skill or competence in a particular field.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The state or quality of being efficient: Refers to the ability to achieve a desired result with minimal waste of time, resources, or effort.
  • Example: "The company improved its efficiency by automating several processes."
• The ratio of useful work performed to total energy expended: Commonly used in physics or engineering to describe how well a machine or system converts input energy into useful output.
  • Example: "The car engine’s fuel efficiency was measured in miles per gallon."