inadequate

adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate (ˌ)i-ˈna-di-kwət 

: not adequate : not enough or good enough : insufficient

inadequate equipment

also : not capable

was inadequate as a leader

inadequately adverb

inadequateness noun

Synonyms of inadequate

• lacking
• insufficient
• scarce
• low

Examples of inadequate in a Sentence

These supplies are inadequate to meet our needs.

We were given very inadequate information.

I felt inadequate to the task.

Her brother's success and popularity always made her feel inadequate.

Recent Examples on the Web

Because inadequate rest raises mortality, premature deaths add to the economic headwind. —Tristan Bove, Fortune, 4 May 2026

The investigation’s findings point to slow and inadequate investigations, underpayments of claims, multiple adjusters causing confusion and smoke damage claims receiving denials and delays. —Amancai Biraben, Daily News, 4 May 2026

As this was an unprecedented case in which league officials participated in the deception, the remedy is woefully inadequate. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 3 May 2026

Current funding levels are inadequate and prevent the critical expansion needed to close that child care gap. —Pamela Campos, Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1671, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inadequate

• adequate

Kids Definition

inadequate

adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate (ˈ)in-ˈad-i-kwət 

: not adequate : not enough or not good enough

an inadequate supply of food

inadequately adverb

Medical Definition

inadequate

1 of 2 adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate -i-kwət 

1

: not adequate : deficient

an inadequate dose

inadequate perfusion

inadequate diets

2

: lacking the capacity for psychological maturity or adequate social adjustment

an inadequate personality

inadequately adverb

inadequate

2 of 2 noun

: one who is inadequate especially in terms of social adjustment