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Definitions

inadequacy

[in-ad-i-kwuh-see] / ɪnˈæd ɪ kwə si /
NOUN
shortage, defect, inability
Synonyms
STRONGEST
dearth deficiency failing flaw imperfection incapacity ineffectiveness inefficiency ineptitude insufficiency paucity shortcoming weakness
STRONG
blemish defalcation defectiveness deficit drawback faultiness inadequateness inaptness incompetence incompetency incompleteness ineffectualness inefficacy lack meagerness poverty scantiness unfitness unsuitableness
WEAK
skimpiness underage
Antonyms
STRONGEST
abundance advantage perfection plenty strength strong point sufficiency
STRONG
enough excess extra
WEAK
ability adequacy

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.

The nine-page text addresses the main flashpoints in Belem: trade measures, demands for greater finance for poorer nations, and the inadequacy of national carbon-cutting pledges.

From Barron's • Nov. 18, 2025

Promoting RRM may reinforce the sense of shame or inadequacy experienced by women who are unable to conceive.

From Slate • Oct. 7, 2025

They’ve never climbed any mountain, but have been damaged on every turn, and have turned the raw feelings of inadequacy, loathing and self-doubt into something powerful – yet dark.

From Salon • May 29, 2025

But the swings point to the inadequacy of tracking the stock market by short-term moves.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2025

By this gesture he assumed full responsibility, but at that moment, she hated him for the inadequacy of the response.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.