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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
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
See all Example Sentences for inadequate ![](/dist-cross-dungarees/2024-07-26--16-18-58-h04dq/images/svg/redesign/arrow-right-exemplar.svg)
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inadequate.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1671, in the meaning defined above
Articles Related to inadequate
Dictionary Entries Near inadequate
Cite this Entry
“Inadequate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inadequate. Accessed 27 Jul. 2024.
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
2 of 2 noun
: one who is inadequate especially in terms of social adjustment
More from Merriam-Webster on inadequate
Nglish: Translation of inadequate for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of inadequate for Arabic Speakers
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