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

• 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

What progress has been public has been from outside that investigation, like State Auditor Diana DiZoglio’s office issuing a report that found the MSP’s training is inadequate. —Flint McColgan, Boston Herald, 13 Sep. 2025

Despite this growing threat, current protections for young athletes are inconsistent and often inadequate. —Laura Schifter, Time, 13 Sep. 2025

More than half of these women have left their jobs under the weight of these tasks, with two-thirds citing inadequate employer support. —Liz Teran, Fortune, 12 Sep. 2025

Tess Crowley/The Deseret News/AP What To Know Despite the event being ticketed, multiple attendees and security experts say the safeguards in place were minimal and inadequate for a high-profile figure. —Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025

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