# inadequacy

/ˌɪˈnædɪkwəsi/ (US) · /ɪnˈædɪkwəsi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inadequacy
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

the state of not being good enough or having enough of something. You use this when something is not strong, large, or useful enough for the job.

For teachers: the state of being insufficient or lacking in quality, quantity, or strength. Often used to describe a failure to meet a standard or requirement.

## Examples

- The old roof showed signs of inadequacy during the storm.
- The committee pointed out the inadequacy of the current safety measures and demanded immediate improvements.
- The philosopher argued that the human condition is defined by a fundamental inadequacy, a sense of not being fully realized or complete in our current state.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.