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

The landmark Ockenden report, led by maternity expert Donna Ockenden, found that over a 13-year period more than 500 mothers and babies died or came to harm due to inadequate care over a 13-year period in just one hospital trust. — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 7 July 2026

But inadequate transmission capacity and lack of interconnectivity over distances are the bottlenecks for new clean energy, according to the Brookings/ Hamilton Project and World Resources Institute. — James Ferguson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 July 2026

Multiple disabled riders spoke with the panel and complained about inadequate warnings. — Sacbee.com, 7 July 2026

The plaintiffs are also asking a judge to declare the company’s security inadequate and order upgrades to meet industry standards. — Chase Jordan july 7, Charlotte Observer, 7 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