inferior
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.not as good as something else.
adj.lower in quality, value, or excellence compared to a standard or another item.
Simple“The cheap fabric felt inferior to the high-quality cotton we usually buy.”
In context“The critics argued that the sequel was vastly inferior to the original film, citing a weak script and uninspired performances.”
UsageAlways used with the preposition 'to' when making a comparison.
PitfallThis model is inferior than the old one. This model is inferior to the old one.The adjective 'inferior' always takes the preposition 'to', never 'than'.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.having a lower position or status in a group or company.
adj.lower in station, rank, or degree within a hierarchical structure.
Simple“He held an inferior rank in the army for many years before his promotion.”
In context“The protocol dictated that officers of inferior rank must salute their superiors upon entering the barracks.”
UsageOften used in military or highly structured corporate contexts.
Synonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
adj.located below another part of the body or a structure.
adj.situated under or beneath another part; in anatomy, situated nearer the soles of the feet.
Simple“The doctor examined the inferior part of the patient's lung.”
In context“The surgeon carefully identified the inferior vena cava to avoid any accidental damage during the abdominal procedure.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.someone who has a lower position or less power than someone else.
n.a person who is lower than another in rank, status, or ability.
Simple“She was always kind and respectful to her inferiors at work.”
In context“The manager's tendency to belittle his inferiors in front of clients led to a significant drop in office morale.”
Teacher's tipThis noun can sound cold or condescending in modern workplaces; 'subordinate' or 'junior staff' is often preferred.
Synonyms
Usage inferior position
“The real story of pre-Google search is not that early engines were inferior.”
Borrowed from Latin īnferior (“lower in situation or place”), comparative of īnferus (“below, underneath”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.