inadequate

adjective

in·​ad·​e·​quate (ˌ)i-ˈna-di-kwət How to pronounce inadequate (audio)
Synonyms of inadequate
: 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

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tiffany's opponent, Democrat David Crowley, said Tiffany's explanation of his actions in 2020 was inadequate. — CBS News, 22 Oct. 2026 Interestingly, edge rusher is among the few positions that’s threatening to remain inadequate for the Dolphins for the entire season. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026 Later that month, an employee spoke anonymously with WSOC-TV about conditions at the complex, describing concerns about overcrowding, inadequate staffing and employees’ ability to manage multiple violent juveniles at once. — Nora O’Neill 21, Charlotte Observer, 21 Oct. 2026 One employee using the cutting machine, which had an inadequate guard, had two fingertips amputated in June, according to public records obtained by The Washington Post. — Myla S. Roundy, Washington Post, 21 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inadequate

Word History

First Known Use

1671, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inadequate was in 1671

Rhymes for inadequate

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Browse Nearby Words

inadequacy
inadequate
in a different league
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Cite this Entry

“Inadequate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inadequate. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inadequate

adjective
in·​ad·​e·​quate (ˈ)in-ˈad-i-kwət How to pronounce inadequate (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce inadequate (audio)
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
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