counterproductively
gb/kˈaʊntɚpɹədˈʌktɪvli/ us/kˈaʊntɚpɹədˈʌktɪvli/
C1
English
Senses
0 senses
adverb
formal
C1
property
1
in a way that backfires
in a way that makes things worse instead of better
Usage pattern:
[someone] acts/speaks/works counterproductively; [something] is used counterproductively
Common mistake:
Often confused with counterintuitively (meaning ‘in a surprising way’). Also remember counterproductively is an adverb; counterproductive is an adjective.
Synonyms
self-defeatingly (Emphasizes harming your own interests.)
|
harmfully (More general; focuses on causing harm.)
|
ineffectively (Stresses failure to achieve results, not necessarily a backfire.)
Antonyms
productively (In a way that produces useful results.)
|
effectively (In a way that achieves the intended result.)
Collocations
act counterproductively
|behave counterproductively
|work counterproductively
|respond counterproductively
|react counterproductively
|argue counterproductively
|manage counterproductively
|counterproductively strict
|counterproductively high
|counterproductively expensive
Themes
work
|communication
|problem_solving
|behavior
Examples
- By criticizing every small mistake, the manager was counterproductively lowering the team’s confidence.
- The policy was meant to reduce traffic, but it counterproductively pushed more cars onto residential streets.
- He tried to calm the discussion, but he spoke so sharply that it worked counterproductively.
Learner examples
- Shouting at people is counterproductively.
- The rule was applied counterproductively.
Grammar
Dictionary form
counterproductively
IPA
GB/kˈaʊntɚpɹədˈʌktɪvli/
US/kˈaʊntɚpɹədˈʌktɪvli/
Syllables & stress
coun - ter - pro - duct - ively (5 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (coun)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: counterproductively
- Plural: counterproductivelies
Word family
Forms
counterproductivelies
noun
Core family
Related words
producer
noun B1
productively
adverb
Negative and opposite forms
Expressions
No expressions linked to this entry yet.