Synonyms for

Adequate

Verb / ˈædʌkwʌt / / ˈædʌˌkweɪt / Another word for adequate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

satisfactory or acceptable in quality or quantity

Synonyms & similar words

decent inadequate enough fairtomiddling passable tolerable equal sufficient suitable acceptable enough appropriate competent capable fitting passable tolerable decent fair reasonable moderate average mediocre so-so OK

Synonyms by register

Formal

sufficient satisfactory acceptable competent

Informal

enough fine okay alright

Literary

meet suffice

Antonyms

insufficient inadequate lacking deficient poor scant meager

Common collocations

  • adequate supply
  • adequate measures
  • adequate training
  • adequate funds
  • adequate response
  • adequate housing
  • adequate nutrition

Word family

noun adequacy
adjective adequate
adverb adequately

Usage note

Adequate suggests meeting a minimum standard or requirement, but not necessarily being excellent or abundant. It can sometimes imply a lack of enthusiasm or high quality.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher provided adequate instructions for the students to complete the assignment.
  2. The water supply was adequate for the entire camping trip.
  3. The amount of time given for the test was adequate.
  4. The car's performance was adequate for everyday use.
  5. The budget was deemed adequate for the project's needs.

Quotes

  • 'Adequate' is not a word that you want to hear describing your life. Or maybe it is.
  • -Amy Poehler
  • I don't want to be adequate. I want to be the best.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words