adequately
0 antonyms and opposites of adequately, grouped by meaning.
Adverb — In a way that is sufficient to meet a need.
How to use adequately
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From adequate plus -ly.
Full origin of adequately →Frequently asked questions
What does “adequately” mean?
The word “adequately” means in a way that is sufficient to meet a need. In plain terms, well enough to satisfy a requirement, though not necessarily impressively.
How do you use “adequately” in a sentence?
Here is “adequately” used in a sentence: “The team was not adequately prepared for the storm.”
What part of speech is “adequately”?
“Adequately” is an adverb.
Is “adequately” a common word?
“Adequately” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "adequately" and "sufficiently"?
Both describe meeting a required standard, but "adequately" tends to suggest a bare minimum level that meets a need, while "sufficiently" is more neutral about whether the amount is minimal or generous. In practice the two words are close synonyms and often interchangeable.
Is it redundant to say something was done "adequately well"?
Yes, this is redundant, since "adequately" already means "in a way that is sufficient," so adding "well" restates the same idea. It is clearer to simply say something was done "adequately" or was "done well."
Does "adequately" imply something was done to a high standard?
No. "Adequately" only means a need was sufficiently met, not that the result was excellent. Something described as done "adequately" meets requirements but is not necessarily impressive.