inadequate

[in-ad-i-kwit] / ɪnˈæd ɪ kwɪt /

ADJECTIVE

defective, insufficient, incompetent

Synonyms

STRONGEST

deficient faulty incompetent incomplete lacking meager poor sad scarce sketchy skimpy unequal weak

WEAK

bare barren bush-league depleted dry failing feeble found wanting glitch imperfect impotent inappreciable inapt incapable incommensurate inconsiderable insubstantial junk lame lemon lousy low minus miserly not enough parsimonious scanty short shy small spare sparse sterile stinted stunted thin too little unproductive unqualified

Antonyms

STRONGEST

able abundant adequate capable complete enough full perfect potent strong sufficient

WEAK

competent

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.

Messrs. Jordan and Issa write that ELI’s compliance with the committee’s oversight has been inadequate thus far.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

But, having targeted last winter's Ashes throughout the previous years, the regime came under intense scrutiny in Australia during a tour blighted by poor on-field performances, off-field issues and inadequate preparation.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Among other complaints, detainees there allege systemic medical neglect and inadequate food and water.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

Regulators previously cited inadequate control in RP1’s clinical trial.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

There were no paved roads, minimal electricity, inadequate sewerage.

From "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood" by Trevor Noah

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