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 complaint also claims dirty housing units, inadequate food and water, very cold temperatures, restrictions on family visits and delays in access to lawyers. —Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 14 Nov. 2025

When confined in kennels, animals might suffer from chronic anxiety, social isolation, inadequate mental stimulation and lack of exercise, all of which could lead to a decline in physical and emotional health or behavioral changes. —Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Nov. 2025

They were held in bondage, forced to labor long hours with no pay, provided inadequate food and shelter, and under threat of physical abuse or even death at the slightest provocation. —Big Think, 13 Nov. 2025

The term nonsexual nudity feels inadequate, because for some, changing in a locker room could carry a charge of eroticism. —Jacob Beckert, The Atlantic, 13 Nov. 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