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inadequacy
noun
in·ad·e·qua·cy
(ˌ)i-ˈna-di-kwə-sē
plural inadequacies
1
: the quality or state of being inadequate
2
Synonyms
Examples of inadequacy in a Sentence
the inadequacy of our servings was soon apparent, as hungry guests started clamoring for seconds
tried to blame others in order to hide the inadequacy of his leadership
Recent Examples on the Web
Persistently monitoring employees suggests a deficit of confidence and independence in their roles, conveying that the employees’ performance is subpar and cultivating a sense of inadequacy.
—Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 8 Jan. 2025
For almost ten years, successive British governments have been trying to redress the inadequacy of the Hyde Park memorial with a new, showstopping monument next to the Houses of Parliament, in Westminster.
—Sam Knight, The New Yorker, 2 Jan. 2025
Newcastle and Howe have found a way through their own difficulty, sticking to founding principles but willing to be pragmatic, self-powered but helped by the inadequacy of others.
—Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 1 Jan. 2025
Technology like the Jupiter One 30 MW hydrogen generator just might make these inefficiencies and inadequacies no longer a problem.
—New Atlas, 27 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for inadequacy
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Word History
First Known Use
1787, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near inadequacy
Cite this Entry
“Inadequacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inadequacy. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
inadequacy
noun
in·ad·e·qua·cy
(ˈ)in-ˈad-i-kwə-sē
plural inadequacies
1
: the quality or state of being inadequate
2
a
: an inadequate amount
b
: a failure to meet expectations
feelings of inadequacy
aware of my own inadequacies
Medical Definition
inadequacy
noun
in·ad·e·qua·cy
(ˈ)in-ˈad-i-kwə-sē
plural inadequacies
: the quality or state of being inadequate
More from Merriam-Webster on inadequacy
Nglish: Translation of inadequacy for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of inadequacy for Arabic Speakers
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