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

Drugs, weapons, and cell phones enter facilities through drones, perimeter breaches, staff misconduct, and inadequate search procedures. —Walter Pavlo, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026

In a statement to the Statesman on Monday, Gray said the city received reports of inadequate heating at one shelter during 24-hour cold weather shelter operations Sunday night. —Chaya Tong, Austin American Statesman, 27 Jan. 2026

Detroit seniors have long raised concerns about poor rental housing conditions from mold infestation and vermin to lack of heat and inadequate security measures. —Nushrat Rahman, Freep.com, 27 Jan. 2026

But for an overwhelming majority of residents, RideSD’s dream is overshadowed by the reality of a woefully inadequate transit system and our county’s immutable geography. —U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Jan. 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