Definition

Not meeting the expected standard or quality; below average.

Example

The restaurant received poor reviews because the food was subpar.

Conversation

Did you see the new restaurant that opened downtown?

Yeah, I went there last week, and it was pretty subpar overall.

That's disappointing! I was hoping it would be good.

Me too, but I think I'll stick to my usual spots for now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subpar → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "par" (from Old French *par*, meaning equal or standard). The word "subpar" means below the standard or not meeting expectations.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'under' ('sub-') the 'standard' ('par') — that's why subpar means something that is below the expected level.

Visually Confused Words