The Open Dictionary

counterproductive

adjective

UK/ˌkaʊn.tə.prəˈdʌk.tɪv/
US/ˌkaʊn.t̬ɚ.prəˈdʌk.tɪv/

Definitions of counterproductive adjective

  1. having the opposite of the desired effect; not helpful and making a situation worse.

    • Overly strict disciplinary measures can sometimes be counterproductive, leading children to become more rebellious.

    • An overtime system implemented to increase work efficiency can be counterproductive if there is not enough rest, leading to employee fatigue and reduced productivity.

    • Buying cheap products to save money can often be counterproductive because they break down more quickly due to poor quality.