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

However, the government calls these efforts inadequate, questioning Novo Nordisk’s ability to monitor drug safety and oversee its call centers on a broader scale. —Austin Fast, USA Today, 17 Mar. 2026

And the urgency for an extreme makeover was all the more clear as of the first day of free agency last Monday with the signing of Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker III to revitalize an inadequate running game that hindered the offense. —Kansas City Star, 16 Mar. 2026

The ultimate concern for Dutch critics of psychiatric euthanasia is that death will become just another treatment option in a mental-health system plagued by long waits for sometimes inadequate care. —Charles Lane, The Atlantic, 15 Mar. 2026

Common signs that a washing machine needs descaling include chalky residue, musty odors, inadequate cleaning, longer wash cycles, and unusual noises. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 14 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