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

Farmers in developing nations face challenges such as low productivity, limited market access, inadequate risk management tools and restricted financial resources. —Stefano Carganico, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024

One study in 2020 found that inadequate nutrition can significantly contribute to fatigue in older adults.7 Personality Traits Individuals who are high achievers may struggle to fully relax, said Ahrabi-Nejad. —Caitlin Pagán, Verywell Health, 28 Dec. 2024

Voluntary compliance with cybersecurity practices are inadequate to protect against hacking from foreign actors, the White House's deputy national security advisor for cyber and emerging technology, Anne Neuberger, said on a Friday call. —Francesca Chambers, USA TODAY, 27 Dec. 2024

Despite boasting cutting-edge medical technologies and treatments, people often face prohibitive costs and inadequate coverage. —Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 27 Dec. 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