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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
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
Many Americans experience period poverty, which is a term used to describe limited or inadequate access to menstrual products or menstrual health education.
—Athena Sobhan, Peoplemag, 17 May 2024
Others have balked at spending that kind of money when there are more urgent priorities to protect the public well-being, such as improving the city’s inadequate flood control system.
—Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for inadequate
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inadequate.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1671, in the meaning defined above
Articles Related to inadequate
Dictionary Entries Near inadequate
Cite this Entry
“Inadequate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inadequate. Accessed 23 May. 2024.
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
2 of 2 noun
: one who is inadequate especially in terms of social adjustment
More from Merriam-Webster on inadequate
Nglish: Translation of inadequate for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of inadequate for Arabic Speakers
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