Definition of Adequate
Quick Meaning of Adequate
Good enough for what you need. Not great, but it does the job.
Detailed Definition of Adequate
Enough in quantity or quality to satisfy a need or requirement; satisfactory.
How to Pronounce Adequate
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the first syllable: AD-i-kwut. The second syllable is quick and unstressed.
Watch out: Some learners stress the second syllable (ad-EE-kwut) or the third (ad-i-KWATE). Always stress the first syllable only.
Origin and Etymology of Adequate
From Latin 'adaequatus' (made equal to). 'Ad-' means 'to' + 'aequatus' means 'equal'. Entered English in 16th century.
How to Use Adequate in a Sentence
Each example shows “adequate” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The parking at the shopping center is adequate for most customers.”
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“Her salary is adequate to cover living expenses.”
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“We need adequate time to complete this project properly.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Adequate
Common Synonyms for Adequate
Smart Synonyms for Adequate — When to Use Each
- sufficient
- More formal; emphasizes meeting exact needs
- acceptable
- Slightly more positive; suggests good approval
- decent
- More informal; friendly conversational tone
Common Collocations with Adequate
These phrases pair with “adequate” in everyday English:
- adequate resources
- adequate funding
- adequate support
- adequate time
Common Mistakes When Using Adequate
Even fluent speakers slip up with “adequate”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The resources is adequate.
- ✓ Correct: The resources are adequate.
- Why: Resources (plural noun) requires 'are' not 'is'.
- ✗ Wrong: The internet connection is adequate enough.
- ✓ Correct: The internet connection is adequate. / The internet connection is good enough.
- Why: 'Adequate' already means 'enough'. Don't say 'adequate enough'.
- ✗ Wrong: An adequate amount of workers are needed.
- ✓ Correct: An adequate number of workers is needed.
- Why: Use 'number' not 'amount' when counting people.
Other Forms of Adequate
- Noun: adequacy
- Adjective: adequate
- Adverb: adequately
Frequently Asked Questions About Adequate
What is the meaning of "Adequate"?
Good enough for what you need. Not great, but it does the job.
How do you pronounce "Adequate"?
The IPA is /ˈædɪkwət/. Stress the first syllable: AD-i-kwut. The second syllable is quick and unstressed.
What part of speech is "Adequate"?
"Adequate" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Adequate"?
Common synonyms include sufficient, enough, satisfactory.
How do you use "Adequate" in a sentence?
For example: "The parking at the shopping center is adequate for most customers."