substandard

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //sʌbˈstændərd//

KK: /sʌbˈstændərd/

adjective

Definition

Not meeting the required quality or standard; inferior in quality.

Example

The substandard materials used in the construction led to many problems.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: more substandard

Superlative: most substandard

Conversation

Did you see that report on the new restaurant?

Yeah, they said the food was substandard at best.

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

Same here, I guess we'll have to find another place to try.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

inferior

deficient

poor

Antonyms

superior

excellent

standard

Root Explanation

Substandard → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "standard" (from Old French *estandard*, meaning a level of quality or measure). The word "substandard" means below the accepted level of quality or measure.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'under' ('sub-') the expected 'level of quality' ('standard') — that's why substandard refers to something that does not meet the required standards.

Visually Confused Words

unstandard