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

• lacking
• insufficient
• scarce
• low

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

When my job involves asking players and coaches about an inadequate performance on some nights, there’s something to be said for being willing to do so with a little self-awareness and humility. —Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 25 Oct. 2025

Furthermore, recent years have exposed significant professional failures—from the flawed coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic to inadequate reporting on President Biden’s cognitive health. —David Wingrave, Harpers Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025

The notion that the catastrophe stems from inadequate defense spending collapses the moment the interceptors fail. —Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 24 Oct. 2025

Compared to countries like France and Japan, which also face declining birth rates, Taiwan’s investment remains inadequate. —Micah McCartney, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1671, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inadequate

• adequate

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