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.

Despite their heartfelt pleas, Brydon told Panorama the reaction of the management had been "inadequate".

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

"The single most important factor threatening the wellbeing of families and midwives and the cause of a potential disaster is inadequate staffing," the letter read.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

Nigerian businesses have expressed concerns that high production costs, inadequate infrastructure and logistics bottlenecks remain major challenges, despite the increased competitiveness of their products in China.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 23, 2026

Under fire for what critics say is inadequate protection of its young user base, Roblox nevertheless remains incredibly popular.

From Slate • May 17, 2026

I know it felt woefully inadequate, but I knew he understood.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss

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