Learn how to use the comparative “less efficient” and superlative “least efficient” with example sentences and differences.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Comparative adjectives help us to describe how good or bad something is when compared to something else. For example, something is taller than something else. Superlative adjectives help us to describe something as having the most or least of a particular characteristic within a group. This makes it easier and more accurate to talk about and compare things.

What is the comparative form of “nonefficient”?

The comparative form of “nonefficient” is “less efficient”.

Example

The old machine is less efficient than the new one.

Example

Her method of organizing files is less efficient than mine.

What is the superlative form of “nonefficient”?

The superlative form of “nonefficient” is “least efficient”.

Example

Out of all the models, this one is the least efficient.

Example

His approach to problem-solving is the least efficient.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "efficient," "less efficient," and "least efficient." Instead, "less efficient" and "least efficient" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "efficient." Using "most efficient" or "more efficient" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Efficient" follows the regular pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives: - Comparative form: Efficient → Less efficient - Superlative form: Efficient → Least efficient

Expressions with similar meanings to “less efficient”

Used to describe something that takes more time or is less productive.

Example

The manual process is much slower than the automated one.

Used to indicate that something is not operating at its maximum capacity or effectiveness.

Example

The outdated software is highly inefficient.

Used to describe something that is not the most favorable or efficient option.

Example

The current system is suboptimal and needs improvement.

Expressions with similar meanings to “least efficient”

Used to describe something that takes the most time or is the least productive.

Example

The slowest runner finished the race last.

Used to indicate that something is operating at the lowest capacity or effectiveness.

Example

The most inefficient process in the workflow was causing delays.

Used to describe something that is the least favorable or efficient option.

Example

The most suboptimal solution was chosen due to budget constraints.

Using than with comparative “less efficient”

When using the comparative form "less efficient" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The old machine is less efficient than the new one." Here, "than" is used to show that the efficiency of the old machine is lower than the efficiency of the new machine.

How can I use this expression in context?

“less efficient” and “least efficient” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Machines

    The new model is less efficient than the previous one.

    The new model is less efficient than the previous one.

  • 2Processes

    The manual process is the least efficient in the workflow.

    The manual process is the least efficient in the workflow.

  • 3Approaches

    His approach to problem-solving is less efficient than hers.

    His approach to problem-solving is less efficient than hers.

  • 4Systems

    The current system is the least efficient among all the options.

    The current system is the least efficient among all the options.

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