Unproductive:
* Refers to something that fails to produce desired results or output.
* Can apply to people, processes, or systems.
* Often implies that something could be productive but is not.
Barren:
* Primarily refers to land or soil that is unable to produce crops due to lack of fertility.
* Can also be used metaphorically to describe a lack of creativity, ideas, or emotional fulfillment.
* Implies a permanent or inherent inability to produce.
Examples:
* Unproductive: "The meeting was unproductive because no decisions were made."
* Barren: "The desert was barren, with no vegetation."
Therefore, while "unproductive" can describe a barren land, it's not a complete synonym. "Barren" has a stronger connotation of inherent lack of productivity, while "unproductive" implies a failure to reach potential.