Definitions

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

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

The group has asked the Slams to pay 22% of their revenue in prize money by 2030, arguing the 15% the French Open is offering is inadequate.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

In all of the Adelanto cases, family members alleged that the facility’s medical response was inadequate, according to the state report.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

I can’t make him happy, and I resent my failure: I am not enough for him, I am inadequate.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood

Vocabulary lists containing inadequate

In the Mood? 100 Words to Describe Emotions

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Paltry Parlance: Synonyms for "Few"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"When Do Kids Become Adults?" Vocabulary from the argument

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!