ineffective

[ in-i-fek-tiv ]

adjective

1. not effective; not producing results; ineffectual:

   ineffective efforts; ineffective remedies.

2. inefficient or incompetent; incapable:

   an ineffective manager.

3. lacking in artistic effect, as a literary work, theatrical production, or painting.

ineffective

/ ˌɪnɪˈfɛktɪv /

adjective

1. having no effect
2. incompetent or inefficient

Derived Forms

• ˌinefˈfectively, adverb
• ˌinefˈfectiveness, noun

Other Words From

• inef·fective·ly adverb
• inef·fective·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ineffective¹

First recorded in 1645–55; in- ³ + effective

Example Sentences

But critics argue these measures have proven ineffective.

From BBC

Stafford was sacked four times, however, multiple passes were tipped and the rushing attack was ineffective.

From Los Angeles Times

Wednesday’s heroics came with the Lakers having blown an early 15-point lead while their leading scorer, Anthony Davis, had been hampered with foul trouble and was largely ineffective.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s expensive, ineffective, and hollow.

From Slate

The reason for this is straightforward: The party has largely been dragged into the depths of its current electoral situation by an anchor named Joe Biden, who, in addition to being perceived as responsible for inflation, was thought of by many voters as a weak and ineffective leader.

From Slate

Related Words

• feeble
• fruitless
• futile
• impotent
• inadequate
• incompetent
• indecisive
• ineffectual
• inefficient
• inept
• limited
• null
• powerless
• unable
• unproductive
• unprofitable
• unsuccessful
• worthless