inadequately

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌɪnəˈkwædɪtli/

KK: /ɪnˈædɪkwətli/

adverb

Definition

In a way that is not enough or not sufficient for a particular purpose.

Example

The project was inadequately funded, leading to many problems.

Conversation

I think I did my presentation inadequately last week.

Really? I thought you did fine!

I just felt like I didn't cover everything properly.

It's normal to feel that way, but I think you were clear enough.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

insufficiently

poorly

deficiently

Antonyms

adequately

sufficiently

competently

Root Explanation

Inadequately → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "adequatus" (from Latin, meaning adequate or sufficient) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "inadequately" means in a manner that is not sufficient or not enough.

Memory Tip

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

Visually Confused Words

unadequately