unproductive implement
[/ˌʌnprəˈdʌktɪv ˈɪmpləmənt/]
nounpl: unproductive implements
ferramenta improdutiva / instrumento improdutivo
1. A tool, device, or instrument that fails to produce desired results or yield productive output; equipment that does not contribute to efficiency or accomplishment of goals
The broken machinery became an unproductive implement that wasted factory resources.
A maquinaria quebrada tornou-se uma ferramenta improdutiva que desperdiçava recursos da fábrica.
2. Figuratively, any method, strategy, or approach that does not achieve intended outcomes or results
Using outdated software proved to be an unproductive implement in modernizing the company's workflow.
Usar software desatualizado provou ser um instrumento improdutivo na modernização do fluxo de trabalho da empresa.
This term is more commonly used in formal business, industrial, and academic contexts in both Brazilian Portuguese and English. In Brazil, there's a cultural emphasis on 'jogo de cintura' (flexibility) and finding workarounds, so calling something 'improdutivo' is a notable criticism. In the USA, particularly in corporate environments, identifying unproductive implements is part of efficiency optimization culture.
NYC Slang
dead weight / waste of space / useless tool
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