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

With the benefit of ample hindsight, some critics on social media trashed the early, uncertain reports as inadequate or worse. —Paul Farhi, Washington Post, 15 July 2024

Brady’s case instead involved an appeal from a district court judge, Richard Berman, vacating Goodell’s decision for inadequate notice, denial of access to investigative files and barring Brady from questioning a lead investigator. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 14 July 2024

The occupation was a protest highlighting the inadequate healthcare services provided to the poor neighborhood. —The Arizona Republic, 13 July 2024

In Brooklyn, the Metropolitan Detention Center, where people are held pre-trial, is rife with unsanitary conditions, inadequate heating and cooling, and unchecked violence against staff and detainees. —New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 12 July 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