Inadequate Meaning and Definition
Inadequate
Pronunciation
/ɪnˈeɪdəkwɪt/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Lacking the necessary qualities, skills, or resources to complete a task or meet a standard.
Examples
- The project was deemed inadequate due to the lack of funding.
- The new employee’s inadequate training led to mistakes on the job.
Synonyms
- Inert
- Incompetent
- Inadequacy
Antonyms
- Competent
- Sufficient
- Effective
Etymology
The word “inadequate” comes from the Latin “in” meaning “not” and “adequatus” meaning “sufficient”. It has been in use since the 15th century.
Usage Notes
To describe a lack of skills, resources, or ability to complete a task or meet a standard.
Cultural References
Appears in the popular TV show “The Office” as a phrase often used by the character Dwight Schrute.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
To be inadequate at something
Related Words or Phrases
- Deficient
- Insufficient
- Lacking
Collocations
- Inadequate funding
- Inadequate training
- Inadequate infrastructure
Frequency of Use
Inadequate is a commonly used adjective in modern language, especially in professional and academic settings.
Common Misspellings
- inadecuate
- inadeket
- inadequite