Cool MateEfficient
UK /["/ɪˈfɪʃnt/"]/US /["/ɪˈfɪʃnt/"]/
Definition
doing something in a good, careful and complete way with no waste of time, money or energy
In simple words: Doing something in a way that saves time and energy.
Examples
- The new software is very efficient at processing data.
- She has an efficient way of organizing her tasks each day.
- We need to find a more efficient solution to this problem.
- The team implemented an efficient system that reduced costs.
- An efficient teacher knows how to engage their students effectively.
Usage notes
Use 'efficient' to describe processes, methods, or people that achieve maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort. It's appropriate in both formal and casual contexts but may sound overly technical in everyday conversation.
Grammar pattern
efficient + object
Memory hint
Think of 'efficient' as being 'on the finish'—like finishing tasks quickly and well.
Collocations
- appear
- be
- look
- extremely
- fairly
- very
- at
- in
Synonyms
- effective
- productive
- resourceful
- rapid
- streamlined
Antonyms
- inefficient
- wasteful
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'efficient' with 'effective'.
- Using 'more efficient' when 'most efficient' is needed.
- Forgetting to use 'efficient' with a specific object.