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English Lexicon

Counterproductive

/ˌkaʊn.tɚ.prəˈdʌk.tɪv/
adjectiveCEFR C1 (Advanced)Top #8500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

1 sense
As adjective
  1. 1

    Having the opposite of the desired effect; tending to hinder rather than help an objective.

    "Punishing employees for minor mistakes is often counterproductive to building a positive culture."
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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Formed in English by combining the prefix counter- (derived from Latin contra meaning against) with productive (from Latin producere meaning to bring forth or produce). First appearing in the mid-20th century, the term evolved to describe actions or policies that have an effect opposite to the one desired.

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