adequacy

noun

ad·​e·​qua·​cy ˈa-di-kwə-sē How to pronounce adequacy (audio)
plural adequacies
: the quality or state of being adequate

Did you know?

When we question the adequacy of health-care coverage, or parking facilities, or school funding, we're asking if they are equal to our need. The adjective adequate means "enough" or "acceptable"—though in sentences like "His performance was adequate", it really means "no better than acceptable".

Examples of adequacy in a Sentence

the fire department sent someone to determine the adequacy of the building's evacuation plan
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tribal leaders also raised issues regarding the adequacy of the previous environmental impact statement, now nearly 40 years old, and the potential for contamination of areas historically occupied by the Havasupai. Arlyssa D. Becenti, The Arizona Republic, 11 Oct. 2024 The district claims the bond is for student safety, but many question its adequacy. Madeleine Parrish, The Arizona Republic, 8 Oct. 2024 Conducted in partnership with the South Australian Department for Environment and Water, the study aimed to evaluate the adequacy of existing management regulations. Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024 Right now, however, the deck is seemingly already stacked against the Giants’ efforts at consistency and adequacy on the O-line. Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 29 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for adequacy 

Word History

Etymology

adequ(ate) + -acy

First Known Use

1701, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of adequacy was in 1701

Dictionary Entries Near adequacy

Cite this Entry

“Adequacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/adequacy. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

adequacy

noun
ad·​e·​qua·​cy ˈad-i-kwə-sē How to pronounce adequacy (audio)
plural adequacies
: the quality or state of being adequate

More from Merriam-Webster on adequacy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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