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.

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

From Slate • May 17, 2026

Alliance sought a contempt order contending that the city was willfully obfuscating to cover up inadequate efforts to live up to its settlement.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

It seems to us that he can’t handle the responsibilities of being a father and feels inadequate in the role, possibly due to his lifelong financial dependence on his mother.

From MarketWatch • May 4, 2026

Issuing a final order, Summers wrote that he was taking this extraordinary step because the state’s case was extraordinarily inadequate.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

“Sir, I do believe you should know that these weapons are highly inadequate for any kind of patrol.”

From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland

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!