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 of inadequate

• 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

Doctor shortages already exist The pipeline of doctors entering the profession is already inadequate. —Suzanne King, Kansas City Star, 31 Mar. 2026

Detainees claim they have been subjected to mold, disease, inadequate food and water, and systemic medical neglect. —Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 30 Mar. 2026

Saint Francis has struggled over the last several years with inadequate staffing and fines from the state Department of Public Health. —Livi Stanford, Hartford Courant, 29 Mar. 2026

Chapell also found the number of phones accessible to detainees inadequate. —Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 28 Mar. 2026

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