insufficient

adjective

in·​suf·​fi·​cient ˌin(t)-sə-ˈfi-shənt 

: not sufficient : inadequate

insufficient funds

especially : lacking adequate power, capacity, or competence

insufficient bandwidth

insufficiently adverb

Synonyms

• deficient
• inadequate
• lacking
• low
• scarce
• short
• shy
• wanting

Examples of insufficient in a Sentence

The case was thrown out because of insufficient evidence.

there's been an insufficient number of volunteers for the job, so I'll have to select someone

Recent Examples on the Web

Excess fiber consumption can lead to diarrhea, and insufficient fluids can lead to constipation. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 2 Nov. 2024

There is a strong correlation between SAD and various factors, such as abnormal sleep, circadian rhythms, and insufficient sunlight exposure. —Sophie Okolo, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

With the end of print services, the Journal, which relied on Star-Ledger facilities, cited financial strain and insufficient circulation to support continued operation. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 31 Oct. 2024

Following an investigation, the Los Angeles county district attorney declined to indict Hammer in 2023, citing insufficient evidence. —Etan Vlessing, The Hollywood Reporter, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin insufficient-, insufficiens, from Latin in- + sufficient-, sufficiens sufficient

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

insufficient

adjective

in·​suf·​fi·​cient ˌin(t)-sə-ˈfish-ənt 

: not sufficient : inadequate

insufficiently adverb