insufficient

adjective

in·​suf·​fi·​cient ˌin(t)-sə-ˈfi-shənt How to pronounce insufficient (audio)
: not sufficient : inadequate
insufficient funds
especially : lacking adequate power, capacity, or competence
insufficient bandwidth
insufficiently adverb

Examples of insufficient in a Sentence

The case was thrown out because of insufficient evidence. there's been an insufficient number of volunteers for the job, so I'll have to select someone
Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Excess fiber consumption can lead to diarrhea, and insufficient fluids can lead to constipation. Mark Gurarie, Health, 2 Nov. 2024 There is a strong correlation between SAD and various factors, such as abnormal sleep, circadian rhythms, and insufficient sunlight exposure. Sophie Okolo, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 With the end of print services, the Journal, which relied on Star-Ledger facilities, cited financial strain and insufficient circulation to support continued operation. Nina Turner, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024 Following an investigation, the Los Angeles county district attorney declined to indict Hammer in 2023, citing insufficient evidence. Etan Vlessing, The Hollywood Reporter, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for insufficient 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin insufficient-, insufficiens, from Latin in- + sufficient-, sufficiens sufficient

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of insufficient was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near insufficient

Cite this Entry

“Insufficient.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insufficient. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

insufficient

adjective
in·​suf·​fi·​cient ˌin(t)-sə-ˈfish-ənt How to pronounce insufficient (audio)
: not sufficient : inadequate
insufficiently adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on insufficient

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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