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

The inability to provide adequate oxygen and remove CO₂ from the air would lead first to confusion, panic and eventually the loss of consciousness. —Alan Bradley, Space.com, 8 May 2026

Finding opportunities While ample supply is expected this year, Norton at AllianceBernstein believes the demand is adequate thanks to the bonds' attractive valuations and solid income. —Michelle Fox, CNBC, 8 May 2026

The activist’s children, Ali and Kiana, who lead the Narges Mohammadi Human Rights Foundation, have also repeatedly demanded that their mother receive adequate care. —Connor Greene, Time, 8 May 2026

Smith further argued that mailing the drug without in-person screenings leaves women without adequate medical oversight or evaluation for contraindications, coercion, and other health concerns. —Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 8 May 2026