inadequacy

noun

in·​ad·​e·​qua·​cy (ˌ)i-ˈna-di-kwə-sē How to pronounce inadequacy (audio)
plural inadequacies
Synonyms of inadequacynext
1
: the quality or state of being inadequate
the inadequacy of the response
2
: insufficiency, deficiency
I'm aware of my inadequacies as a parent.

Synonyms of inadequacy

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Examples of inadequacy in a Sentence

the inadequacy of our servings was soon apparent, as hungry guests started clamoring for seconds tried to blame others in order to hide the inadequacy of his leadership
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Experts at Black Hat highlighted the challenge of distinguishing good from bad agent actions and the inadequacy of current identity management, which relies on human accountability and speed. — Ron Schmelzer, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Then there’s social jealousy, like if your daughter didn’t get invited to a sleepover, which causes feelings of insecurity or inadequacy. — Jenna Autuori-Dedic, Parents, 4 Aug. 2026 Managers should view anxiety as evidence of investment, not inadequacy. — David H. Rosmarin, Time, 30 July 2026 At the center of the narrative is the theme of parenthood, explored through the eyes of someone who chooses to give it up out of sheer fear and inadequacy. — Ed Meza, Variety, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for inadequacy

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inadequacy was in 1786

Rhymes for inadequacy

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Browse Nearby Words

in addition to
inadequacy
inadequate
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Cite this Entry

“Inadequacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inadequacy. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inadequacy

noun
in·​ad·​e·​qua·​cy (ˈ)in-ˈad-i-kwə-sē How to pronounce inadequacy (audio)
plural inadequacies
1
: the quality or state of being inadequate
2
a
: an inadequate amount
b
: a failure to meet expectations
feelings of inadequacy
aware of my own inadequacies

Medical Definition

inadequacy

noun
in·​ad·​e·​qua·​cy (ˈ)in-ˈad-i-kwə-sē How to pronounce inadequacy (audio)
plural inadequacies
: the quality or state of being inadequate

More from Merriam-Webster on inadequacy

Nglish: Translation of inadequacy for Spanish Speakers

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