Synonyms of adequate

adequate

adjective

ˈa-di-kwət 

as in decent

of a level of quality that meets one's needs or standards

this old computer is probably adequate if you just want to type a term paper

Synonyms & Similar Words

• decent
• satisfactory
• good
• fine
• okay
• acceptable
• OK
• serviceable
• useful
• tolerable
• respectable
• passable
• suitable
• all right
• minimal
• fairish
• appropriate
• worthy
• up to snuff
• proper
• average
• agreeable
• standard
• bearable
• fair
• fitting
• mediocre
• satisfying
• ordinary
• correct
• middling
• common
• indifferent
• endurable
• meet
• due
• right
• sufferable
• so-so
• unexceptional
• run-of-the-mine
• second-rate
• gratifying
• run-of-mine
• seemly
• run-of-the-mill

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• insufficient
• inadequate
• lacking
• unsatisfactory
• deficient
• unacceptable
• improper
• wanting
• useless
• wrong
• unsuitable
• insufficient
• objectionable
• unworthy
• unfit
• incomplete
• defective
• imperfect
• disagreeable
• cheap
• indecent
• bad
• shoddy
• short
• poor
• faulty
• pitiful
• disreputable
• meager
• lamentable
• scanty
• spare
• meagre
• skimpy
• mean
• shabby
• optimal
• special
• maximum
• intolerable
• optimum
• stingy
• unbearable
• miserly
• great
• exceptional
• extreme
• unendurable
• superior
• supreme
• atrocious
• insufferable
• unparalleled
• first-class
• miserable
• fancy
• exquisite
• superb
• splendid
• wonderful
• dissatisfying
• prime
• divine
• premium
• terrific
• execrable
• wretched
• vile
• unmatched
• high-grade
• neat
• matchless
• top
• marvelous
• peerless
• stellar
• superlative
• first-rate
• noble
• classic
• marvellous
• keen
• grand
• unsurpassed
• heavenly
• fabulous
• niggardly
• sensational
• capital
• par excellence
• banner
• sterling
• preeminent
• swell
• dandy
• nifty
• A1
• maximized
• supernal
• boss
• top-notch
• groovy
• tip-top
• crackerjack
• bang-up
• jim-dandy

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective adequate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adequate are competent, enough, and sufficient. While all these words mean "being what is necessary or desirable," adequate may imply barely meeting a requirement.

the service was adequate

When could competent be used to replace adequate?

The words competent and adequate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, competent suggests measuring up to all requirements without question or being adequately adapted to an end.

had no competent notion of what was going on

How are the words enough and sufficient related as synonyms of adequate?

Enough is less exact in suggestion than sufficient.

do you have enough food?

When would sufficient be a good substitute for adequate?

Although the words sufficient and adequate have much in common, sufficient suggests a close meeting of a need.

sufficient savings

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of adequate

Incorporating some of these foods with other lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity, adequate hydration, and proper sleep, can help change body composition. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 13 Mar. 2025

To help reduce oxidative stress and improve sperm quality, Amory advises men to avoid tobacco, limit alcohol consumption, eat healthy, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep. —Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 12 Mar. 2025

The filing also discusses the company's liquidity and capital management strategies, including maintaining adequate liquidity to meet financial obligations and exploring market expansion opportunities. —Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 12 Mar. 2025

And which city—there are so many things to consider between housing costs, adequate health care, and cultural activities. —Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 11 Mar. 2025