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Definition of nonproductive

nonproductive

/ˌnɑːnpɹəˈdʌktɪv/
non · pro · duc · tive
Adverb:nonproductively
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nonproductive Lexical Profile

nonproductive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Not producing or able to produce desired results, goods, or economic value; failing to achieve a useful outcome.

Example

"The committee decided to cut down on long, nonproductive meetings that delayed the project."

2

Not bringing up mucus or phlegm from the respiratory tract (especially of a cough).

Example

"The patient presented with a persistent, nonproductive cough and a mild fever."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

While often used interchangeably with 'unproductive', 'nonproductive' is frequently preferred in economics, business, and medicine to neutrally classify something that does not directly generate output or phlegm (such as nonproductive labor or a nonproductive cough), whereas 'unproductive' carries a stronger evaluative sense of wasted effort.

• Rhymes for nonproductive

• Nearby Words

nonpregnant
nonprescription
nonprint
nonproductive
nonprofessional
nonprofit
nonprogrammer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Nonproductive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/nonproductive
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