eficiente
adjectiveCEFR B2
What does “eficiente” mean in English?
efficient — achieving results with minimal waste of resources; optimal input-output ratio
efficient — achieving results with minimal waste of resources; optimal input-output ratio (contrasted with eficaz = effective)
Example sentences
Un sistema de transporte eficiente reduce los costes, las emisiones y el tiempo de desplazamiento de los ciudadanos.
An efficient transport system reduces costs, emissions, and citizens' travel time.
La empresa buscaba una forma más eficiente de gestionar sus inventarios y reducir el tiempo de distribución.
The company was looking for a more efficient way to manage its inventories and reduce distribution time.
Una cosa es que la medida sea eficaz y otra muy distinta que sea eficiente: puede funcionar y a la vez resultar carísima.
One thing is that the measure is effective, and quite another that it is efficient: it can work and at the same time be very costly.
How to use it
Eficiente means 'efficient' — achieving results with minimal waste of time, energy, or resources. Takes ser (inherent quality). Critical distinction: eficiente (efficient — good ratio of input to output) vs eficaz (effective — achieves the intended result regardless of cost). A treatment can be eficaz (it works) but not eficiente (it is very expensive). A process can be eficiente (quick, low-cost) but not eficaz (it doesn't actually solve the problem). Both are key B2 evaluative adjectives.
Common mistake
Eficiente (efficient: optimal use of resources) vs eficaz (effective: achieves the intended result). This distinction is one of the most tested B2 vocabulary contrasts in Spanish exams. A drug can be eficaz (it cures the disease) but not eficiente (it takes six months and is expensive). A process can be eficiente (quick and cheap) but not eficaz (it doesn't solve the underlying problem). Use both forms in the same sentence to demonstrate command of the contrast.