The concept of 效率 (xiàolǜ) is deeply tied to China's modern identity and its period of “Reform and Opening Up” (改革开放 - gǎigé kāifàng) that began in the late 1970s. Before this, the pace of life and work was much slower. The economic reforms unleashed a national drive for development, and `效率` became a core value and a national buzzword. This is famously captured by the slogan born in the rapidly developing city of Shenzhen: 时间就是金钱,效率就是生命 (Shíjiān jiùshì jīnqián, xiàolǜ jiùshì shēngmìng) — “Time is money, efficiency is life.” This phrase represents a monumental shift in the collective mindset. Compared to the Western concept of “productivity,” `效率` often carries a stronger sense of collective urgency and national purpose. While an American might focus on personal productivity hacks to improve their individual work-life balance, in a Chinese context, improving `效率` is often seen as a contribution to the team, the company, or even the country's progress. It's a key performance indicator not just for individuals, but for entire systems.
`效率` is an extremely common and versatile word used in formal and informal contexts, though it always carries a slightly technical, performance-oriented feel.
The connotation is overwhelmingly positive. High `效率` is a virtue and a goal, while low `效率` is a problem to be solved.