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

Since leaving the White House in 2017, the former president has been a hesitant entrant into policy debates as the Democratic Party struggled to find an adequate successor. —Jay Stahl, USA Today, 19 June 2026

Ensure that plants have adequate soil fertility to promote growth and increase fruit production. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 18 June 2026

In addition, applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure, ensuring adequate coverage, and reapplying every 90 minutes can help protect the skin from overheating and potential sunburn. —Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 18 June 2026

This produces a range of problems, including restrictions on the internet and social networks introduced without adequate preparation or planning. —Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 18 June 2026