Synonyms of adequate

adequate

adjective

ˈa-di-kwət 

as in decent

of a level of quality that meets one's needs or standards

this old computer is probably adequate if you just want to type a term paper

Synonyms & Similar Words

• decent
• satisfactory
• good
• fine
• acceptable
• OK
• serviceable
• useful
• tolerable
• respectable
• passable
• suitable
• all right
• minimal
• fairish
• appropriate
• worthy
• up to snuff
• proper
• average
• agreeable
• standard
• bearable
• fair
• fitting
• correct
• mediocre
• satisfying
• ordinary
• middling
• common
• indifferent
• endurable
• meet
• due
• right
• sufferable
• so-so
• unexceptional
• run-of-the-mine
• second-rate
• gratifying
• seemly
• run-of-the-mill

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• insufficient
• inadequate
• lacking
• unsatisfactory
• deficient
• unacceptable
• improper
• wanting
• useless
• wrong
• unsuitable
• insufficient
• objectionable
• unworthy
• unfit
• incomplete
• defective
• imperfect
• disagreeable
• cheap
• bad
• indecent
• short
• shoddy
• poor
• faulty
• pitiful
• disreputable
• meager
• lamentable
• scanty
• spare
• skimpy
• mean
• shabby
• optimal
• special
• maximum
• intolerable
• optimum
• stingy
• unbearable
• miserly
• great
• exceptional
• extreme
• unendurable
• superior
• supreme
• atrocious
• insufferable
• unparalleled
• first-class
• miserable
• fancy
• exquisite
• superb
• splendid
• dissatisfying
• wonderful
• prime
• divine
• premium
• terrific
• execrable
• wretched
• vile
• unmatched
• high-grade
• neat
• top
• matchless
• marvelous
• peerless
• stellar
• superlative
• first-rate
• noble
• classic
• keen
• grand
• unsurpassed
• heavenly
• fabulous
• sensational
• capital
• par excellence
• banner
• sterling
• preeminent
• swell
• dandy
• nifty
• A1
• maximized
• supernal
• boss
• top-notch
• groovy
• tip-top
• crackerjack
• bang-up
• jim-dandy

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective adequate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adequate are competent, enough, and sufficient. While all these words mean "being what is necessary or desirable," adequate may imply barely meeting a requirement.

the service was adequate

When could competent be used to replace adequate?

The words competent and adequate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, competent suggests measuring up to all requirements without question or being adequately adapted to an end.

had no competent notion of what was going on

How are the words enough and sufficient related as synonyms of adequate?

Enough is less exact in suggestion than sufficient.

do you have enough food?

When would sufficient be a good substitute for adequate?

Although the words sufficient and adequate have much in common, sufficient suggests a close meeting of a need.

sufficient savings

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of adequate

Both Missouri and federal law, the appeals court found, require companies to label products with adequate warnings to protect public health. — Sarah J. Morath, The Conversation, 2 July 2026

That context matters enormously for investors trying to assess whether the income available in credit markets is adequate compensation for the risks being assumed. — Jason Kirsch, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

Growing Requirements Growing trees requires full sun, adequate moisture, and proper soil. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 2 July 2026

Any python-nabbing excursion requires adequate prep work to ensure everyone stays safe—and actually hunts the proper animals. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 2 July 2026