below par

ADJECTIVE

second-rate in quality

Synonyms

WEAK

below average imperfect inferior lacking not oneself off off-form poor substandard under the weather wanting

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That figure is substantially below par for any team with serious title aspirations.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2026

Though Scotland's score always looked 20 runs below par, England were troubled at one stage.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2026

Although the total appeared below par on paper, the pitch should remain a handful.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

These levels are well below par, but the sharp gains suggest improving expectations for an eventual recovery.

From Barron's • Jan. 5, 2026

Even Holly’s beacon was a few shades below par, and that had a micro nuclear battery sending out the pulses.

From "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer