self defeating
/ˌsɛlfdɪˈfitɪŋ/
adjective
- Causing more problems than it solves; preventing the achievement of the goal it is meant to help.
- Trying to save money by not maintaining your car is self-defeating, since repairs will cost more later.
- A self-defeating argument only weakens your own position instead of convincing others.
- His constant criticism of his team was self-defeating, because it made them less motivated to work hard.
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