Inadequate

Definition

Lacking the quality or quantity required; insufficient for a purpose.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈædəkwət/
• Respelling: in-AD-uh-kwuht (with "in" as in "tin," "AD" as in "bad," "uh" as in "sofa," and "kwuht" as in "quit")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈædəkwət/
• Respelling: in-AD-uh-kwuht (with "in" as in "tin," "AD" as in "bad," "uh" as in "sofa," and "kwuht" as in "quit")

In both dialects, "inadequate" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "AD." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "in-AD-uh-kwuht."

Etymology

The word "inadequate" is derived from the prefix "in-" meaning "not" and the adjective "adequate". "Adequate" comes from the Latin word "adaequatus", past participle of "adaequare" meaning "to equalize", composed of "ad-" meaning "to" and "aequare", meaning "to equal".

Derivatives

• Inadequately (adverb)
• Inadequacy (noun)
• Adequate (antonym form)
• Adequately (antonym form)
• Adequacy (antonym form)

Synonyms

• Insufficient
• Lacking
• Deficient

Antonyms

• Adequate
• Sufficient
• Ample

Usage

"Inadequate" is commonly used to describe situations, resources, or efforts that do not meet the necessary standards or requirements. It often implies a need for improvement or enhancement.

Related Terms

• Shortfall
• Ineptitude
• Incompetence
• Scarcity
• Wanting

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Inadequate (Insufficient): Lacking the quantity or quality required; insufficient for a purpose.
  • Example: "The funding for the project was inadequate, leading to its eventual cancellation."

• Inadequate (Lacking): Failing to reach an expected or required level or standard.
  • Example: "His explanation was inadequate and did not address the main concerns."

Note: The term "inadequate" can be applied to a variety of situations to indicate something that doesn't meet a certain standard or expectation. It can describe anything from resources and preparations to skills and attitudes.