inadequate

adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate (ˌ)i-ˈna-di-kwət 

: not adequate : not enough or good enough : insufficient

inadequate equipment

also : not capable

was inadequate as a leader

inadequately adverb

inadequateness noun

Synonyms

• deficient
• insufficient
• lacking
• low
• scarce
• short
• shy
• wanting

Examples of inadequate in a Sentence

These supplies are inadequate to meet our needs.

We were given very inadequate information.

I felt inadequate to the task.

Her brother's success and popularity always made her feel inadequate.

Recent Examples on the Web

In April, Inspector General Christi Grimm defended her office’s work in congressional testimony but also asserted that its resources are inadequate. —Peter Elkind, ProPublica, 13 Nov. 2024

Acero said in a statement to the Tribune that the schools are closing due to insufficient funding, a lack of enrollment and inadequate spaces to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. —Laura Rodríguez Presa, Chicago Tribune, 29 Oct. 2024

Subsequently, the data was found for sale on dark web forums, illustrating the severe consequences of inadequate security settings. —Jody Brazil, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Many accidents are attributed to reckless driving, inadequate road maintenance, and the use of aging vehicles. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1671, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

inadequate

adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate (ˈ)in-ˈad-i-kwət 

: not adequate : not enough or not good enough

an inadequate supply of food

inadequately adverb

Medical Definition

inadequate

1 of 2 adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate -i-kwət 

1

: not adequate : deficient

an inadequate dose

inadequate perfusion

inadequate diets

2

: lacking the capacity for psychological maturity or adequate social adjustment

an inadequate personality

inadequately adverb

inadequate

2 of 2 noun

: one who is inadequate especially in terms of social adjustment