Synonyms of inadequate

inadequate

adjective

(ˌ)i-ˈna-di-kwət 

as in lacking

not coming up to an expected measure or meeting a particular need

an inadequate amount of food on hand for so many unexpected guests

Synonyms & Similar Words

• lacking
• insufficient
• scarce
• low
• deficient
• short
• wanting
• unacceptable
• unsatisfactory
• shy
• substandard
• sparse
• poor
• meager
• skimpy
• scanty
• scant
• lean
• stingy
• small
• mere
• minimum
• slender
• light
• spare
• slim
• bare
• skimp
• hand-to-mouth
• slight

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• adequate
• sufficient
• enough
• abundant
• generous
• ample
• plentiful
• copious
• liberal
• bountiful
• enlarged
• bounteous
• plenteous
• satisfactory
• expanded
• supplemented
• large
• overflowing
• tolerable
• rich
• considerable
• substantial
• plenitudinous
• lavish
• sizable
• super
• big
• teeming
• luxuriant
• hefty
• oversize
• abounding
• jumbo
• largish
• king-size

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of inadequate

Naturally, given the setting, the conversation turns to the inmates’ inadequate access to hygiene and beauty products. — Elizabeth Gulino, Allure, 8 Oct. 2026

Irrigation water may also become a greater concern when walkways have inadequate drainage or landscaping directs water toward pedestrian areas. — Christyne D. Santisteban, Miami Herald, 8 Oct. 2026

Families alleged inadequate care at the facility contributed to their relatives’ deaths. — Ruben Vives, Los Angeles Times, 8 Oct. 2026

Parents also mentioned frustration with school leadership, limited extracurricular activities and inadequate special education services. — Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026