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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
Similarly, inadequate or lack of play contradicts cats' biology and can lead to distress.
—
Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 3 July 2024
Police have been accused in the past of making inadequate safety arrangements for similar events.
—
Mithil Aggarwal, NBC News, 3 July 2024
One candidate who has taken difficult if inadequate policy steps in that direction is up against another candidate who denies the problem even exists.
—
Christopher Knight, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2024
One significant concern is the inadequate education provided to participants regarding humane euthanasia methods.
—
Brandon Rahe, Orlando Sentinel, 30 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for inadequate ![](/dist-cross-dungarees/2024-06-24--16-08-26-f2gnl/images/svg/redesign/arrow-right-exemplar.svg)
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 15 Jul. 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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