Definition

Not enough to meet a need or requirement; lacking in quality or quantity.

Example

The resources provided for the project were inadequate, leading to delays.

Conversation

I felt the support we got was rather inadequate during the project.

Yeah, I noticed that too; it made things so much harder for us.

I really think we need better resources next time to avoid feeling inadequate.

Definitely! It would help us perform way better in the future.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inadequate → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "adequatus" (from Latin, meaning equal or sufficient). The word "inadequate" means not sufficient or not equal to what is required.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being combined with 'sufficient' ('adequatus') to remember that inadequate means something is not enough.

Visually Confused Words