inadequacy
Inadequacy (noun) means the state of not being good enough or sufficient for what's needed. Example: “The report exposed serious inadequacies in the hospital's safety procedures.”
How to use inadequacy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFalling short — either a system that doesn't work well enough, or a personal feeling of not measuring up.
Word forms
inadequacies plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He struggled with a deep sense of _____ after losing his job.
Etymology
From inadequate plus -cy, or in- plus adequacy.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for inadequacy
See all rhymes for inadequacy →Frequently asked questions
What does “inadequacy” mean?
The word “inadequacy” means the state of not being good enough or sufficient for what's needed. In plain terms, falling short — either a system that doesn't work well enough, or a personal feeling of not measuring up.
How do you pronounce “inadequacy”?
“Inadequacy” is pronounced ih-NA-dihk-wuh-see (/ɪˈnædɪkwəsi/ in IPA).
How do you use “inadequacy” in a sentence?
Here is “inadequacy” used in a sentence: “He struggled with a deep sense of inadequacy after losing his job.”
What part of speech is “inadequacy”?
“Inadequacy” is a noun.
How many meanings does “inadequacy” have?
“Inadequacy” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the state of not being good enough or sufficient for what's needed.