adj B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

insufficient

ihn-suh-FIH-shuhnt

Insufficient (adj) means not enough for what is needed. Example: “The evidence was insufficient to support a conviction.”

adj

Not enough for what is needed.

"The evidence was insufficient to support a conviction."

"She was let go due to insufficient performance reviews."

How to use insufficient

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishLacking enough quantity, quality, or ability to meet a requirement.

Common pairings

insufficient evidence insufficient funds insufficient data

Word forms

more insufficient comparative, most insufficient superlative

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The evidence was _____ to support a conviction.

Etymology

From Latin insufficiens — in- ("not") + sufficiens ("sufficient").

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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inadequate lacking scant deficient

Related words

without few bad OK rare wanting decent excessive

Rhymes for insufficient

client orient ancient patient salient ambient lenient quotient obedient nutrient gradient sentient

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Frequently asked questions

What does “insufficient” mean?

The word “insufficient” means not enough for what is needed. In plain terms, lacking enough quantity, quality, or ability to meet a requirement.

How do you pronounce “insufficient”?

“Insufficient” is pronounced ihn-suh-FIH-shuhnt (/ɪnsəˈfɪʃənt/ in IPA).

How do you use “insufficient” in a sentence?

Here is “insufficient” used in a sentence: “The evidence was insufficient to support a conviction.”

What part of speech is “insufficient”?

“Insufficient” is an adjective.

Where does the word “insufficient” come from?

The word “insufficient” comes from Latin. From Latin insufficiens — in- ("not") + sufficiens ("sufficient").

Is “insufficient” a common word?

“Insufficient” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

What is the difference between insufficient and inadequate?

Insufficient specifically means not enough in quantity or amount, such as insufficient funds or insufficient evidence, while inadequate more broadly covers not enough in quality as well as quantity, such as an inadequate explanation. The two overlap heavily but inadequate has a slightly wider range of use.

What is a common phrase using insufficient?

Common phrases include "insufficient funds," "insufficient evidence," and "insufficient sleep," all describing a shortfall relative to what is needed.

Is insufficient a formal word?

Yes, insufficient tends to appear in formal or precise contexts, such as banking, legal, and academic writing, more often than in casual conversation, where "not enough" is more common.

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Vocabulary lists that include insufficient:

12 letter words Words that start with I

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