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

Standard bereavement policies are often inadequate; a flexible, graduated return to work proves more effective. — Mena Mirhom, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

The initial suit alleged that while the company had a policy governing its ALPR data as required by state law, the policy was inadequate or not followed. — Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 July 2026

Yet many schools lack the infrastructure – from inadequate air conditioning to fields and play areas that are not shaded – to cope with high temperatures. — The Conversation, Fortune, 27 July 2026

On one side were animal rights activists who said carriage horses are overworked, get easily spooked on city streets, live in inadequate stables and are controlled by abusive owners and drivers. — Barry Williams, New York Daily News, 25 July 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