1
as in shortage
a falling short of an essential or desirable amount or number
the inadequacy of our servings was soon apparent, as hungry guests started clamoring for seconds
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in inability
the lack of sufficient ability, power, or means
tried to blame others in order to hide the inadequacy of his leadership
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of inadequacy
This project explores the fragility of memory and the inadequacy of language through an interactive time-traveling experience.
—
Matthew Carey, Deadline, 16 Mar. 2025
Many capable, accomplished women live in the ‘not enough’ trap, wrestling daily with a nagging sense of inadequacy.
—Margie Warrell, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025
And though the Dallas Mavericks pointed to Doncic’s defensive inadequacy as one of their reasons for moving him, the Lakers lead the NBA in defensive rating since the start of February.
—Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 7 Mar. 2025
However, research suggests that these ideals can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and burnout.
—Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for inadequacy
Matthew Carey, Deadline, 16 Mar. 2025
Many capable, accomplished women live in the ‘not enough’ trap, wrestling daily with a nagging sense of inadequacy.
—Margie Warrell, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025
And though the Dallas Mavericks pointed to Doncic’s defensive inadequacy as one of their reasons for moving him, the Lakers lead the NBA in defensive rating since the start of February.
—Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 7 Mar. 2025
However, research suggests that these ideals can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and burnout.
—Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for inadequacy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inadequacy
Noun
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With entire flocks culled to prevent the spread of the virus, the egg supply has been strained, leading to shortages in stores and inflated costs for consumers.—
Claire Malon,
Chicago Tribune,
11 Apr. 2025
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There’s also a host of brand-new, inexperienced medical students; a staffing shortage; and the hospital administrator breathing down Dr. Robby’s neck.—
Kathryn VanArendonk,
Vulture,
11 Apr. 2025
Noun
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The researchers discovered that the solvent’s inability to mix with bodily fluids is key for the drug crystals to clump together and form a long-lasting drug reservoir (depot) beneath the skin post-injection.—
Mrigakshi Dixit,
Interesting Engineering,
24 Mar. 2025
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An inability to get the final defensive stops.—
Brendan Quinn,
The Athletic,
23 Mar. 2025
Noun
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His quickness getting across the crease, his evident athleticism, more than made up for any lack of experience.—
Mark Lazerus,
New York Times,
20 Apr. 2025
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But, sadly, because bathrooms are such high-moisture rooms with a lack of ventilation, mold is easy to grow.—
Ashlyn Needham,
Southern Living,
19 Apr. 2025
Noun
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That deficiency intensified now that Brown is heading to Jacksonville on a one-year deal, according to a team source.—
Ben Standig,
New York Times,
11 Apr. 2025
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According to a 2023 study, 35% of adults in the US are suffering from a vitamin D deficiency, and that can lead to a number of issues (poor immune system, risk of certain cancers, and liver and kidney disease, to name just a few).—
Audrey Noble,
Vogue,
11 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Inadequacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inadequacy. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.
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