counterproductive
|coun/ter/pro/duc/tive|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˌkaʊntərprəˈdʌktɪv/
🇬🇧
/ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/
opposite effect
Etymology
Etymology Information
'counterproductive' originates from the prefix 'counter-' meaning 'against' and the word 'productive' meaning 'yielding results'.
Historical Evolution
'Counterproductive' was formed in the 20th century by combining 'counter-' with 'productive'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'working against desired results', and this meaning has remained consistent.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
having the opposite of the desired effect.
His strict approach to teaching was counterproductive, as it discouraged students from participating.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40