C1noun2K

Productivity

UK /["/ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/"]/US /["/ˌprəʊdʌkˈtɪvəti//ˌprɑːdʌkˈtɪvəti/"]/

Definition

the rate at which a worker, a company or a country produces goods, and the amount produced, compared with how much time, work and money is needed to produce them

In simple words: How much work or things someone can do in a certain time.

Examples

  • **high/improved/increased productivity**
  • Wage rates depend on levels of productivity.
  • the low agricultural productivity of the country
  • Few employers measure employee productivity.
  • It cost the company $25 million in reduced productivity.
  • Organizations today just can't afford to lose productivity.
  • Productivity is growing at a very healthy rate.
  • The strike took a heavy toll in lost productivity.
  • Wage increases outpaced growth in productivity.
  • If you want to stay in this job you'll need to get your productivity up.

Usage notes

Use 'productivity' in professional settings to discuss efficiency. Avoid it in casual conversations among friends. It's appropriate in reports, discussions about work, or research.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'produce' and 'activity' — how much you create during your activities.

Collocations

  • high
  • low
  • enhanced
  • level
  • boost
  • enhance
  • improve
  • go up
  • grow
  • improve
  • level
  • boom
  • enhancement
  • a decline in productivity
  • a reduction in productivity
  • a gain in productivity

Synonyms

  • efficiency
  • output
  • performance
  • effectiveness
  • throughput

Antonyms

  • unproductivity
  • inefficiency

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'production' vs 'productivity'.
  • Using 'productive' incorrectly as a noun instead of 'productivity'.
  • Overusing in casual contexts where simpler terms like 'output' might fit better.