Synonyms for

Inadequate

Verb / ˌɪˈnædʌkwʌt / / ˌɪˈnædʌˌkweɪt / Another word for inadequate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not enough or not good enough; not adequate

Synonyms & similar words

unequal adequate poor short insufficient unsatisfactory deficient incomplete lacking poor substandard inferior imperfect flawed incompetent inept inapt unfit unqualified inappropriate unsuitable inapplicable inapposite wrong

Synonyms by register

Formal

insufficient deficient unsuitable inappropriate

Informal

not good enough lacking weak poor

Literary

wanting meager scant

Antonyms

adequate sufficient ample enough satisfactory competent suitable

Common collocations

  • inadequate preparation
  • inadequate resources
  • inadequate nutrition
  • inadequate response
  • inadequate funding
  • inadequate housing
  • inadequate measures

Word family

noun inadequacy
adverb inadequately

Usage note

Often used to describe something that fails to meet a required standard or expectation. Be mindful of its negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The amount of food they gave me was inadequate.
  2. My bike is inadequate for a long ride.
  3. His experience was inadequate for the new job.
  4. The school's budget was inadequate to buy new computers.
  5. The safety measures were inadequate in the old building.

Quotes

  • Inadequate information breeds misunderstandings and feeds fallacies.
  • The measure of a life, after all, is not its duration, but its full donation, however humble, inadequate, or scanty.
  • Inadequate communication is the root of many problems.

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