Definition

A situation or condition that is not useful or effective, often leading to negative results or inefficiencies.

Example

The disutility of the new policy became clear when it caused more problems than it solved.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the disutility of some plans we make?

Yeah, sometimes they just end up being a waste of time.

Exactly! It's frustrating when you realize a plan has more disutility than benefits.

For sure, we should focus on what actually works.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Disutility** → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or not) and "utility" (from Latin *utilitas*, meaning usefulness). The word "disutility" refers to the state of being not useful or having negative utility.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' or 'apart' ('dis-') from 'usefulness' ('utility') — that's why disutility means something that is not useful.

Visually Confused Words