inadequate

adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate (ˌ)i-ˈna-di-kwət 

: not adequate : not enough or good enough : insufficient

inadequate equipment

also : not capable

was inadequate as a leader

inadequately adverb

inadequateness noun

Synonyms

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

Examples of inadequate in a Sentence

These supplies are inadequate to meet our needs.

We were given very inadequate information.

I felt inadequate to the task.

Her brother's success and popularity always made her feel inadequate.

Recent Examples on the Web

When their work is considered inadequate, a perfectionistic leader’s anger can threaten psychological safety in the workplace. —Esade Business & Law School, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025

Yesterday’s announcement that Israel will allow a basic quantity of food into Gaza is wholly inadequate. —Callum Sutherland, Time, 23 May 2025

Inmate advocates said access to alternate toilets were severely inadequate. —Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 21 May 2025

The causes of his discipline included gross negligence, inadequate audit documentation and failure to comply with professional standards. —Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 21 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1671, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inadequate

• adequate

Kids Definition

inadequate

adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate (ˈ)in-ˈad-i-kwət 

: not adequate : not enough or not good enough

an inadequate supply of food

inadequately adverb

Medical Definition

inadequate

1 of 2 adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate -i-kwət 

1

: not adequate : deficient

an inadequate dose

inadequate perfusion

inadequate diets

2

: lacking the capacity for psychological maturity or adequate social adjustment

an inadequate personality

inadequately adverb

inadequate

2 of 2 noun

: one who is inadequate especially in terms of social adjustment