as in decent
of a level of quality that meets one's needs or standards this old computer is probably adequate if you just want to type a term paper

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the adjective adequate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adequate are competent, enough, and sufficient. While all these words mean "being what is necessary or desirable," adequate may imply barely meeting a requirement.

the service was adequate

When could competent be used to replace adequate?

The words competent and adequate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, competent suggests measuring up to all requirements without question or being adequately adapted to an end.

had no competent notion of what was going on

How are the words enough and sufficient related as synonyms of adequate?

Enough is less exact in suggestion than sufficient.

do you have enough food?

When would sufficient be a good substitute for adequate?

Although the words sufficient and adequate have much in common, sufficient suggests a close meeting of a need.

sufficient savings

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of adequate Research shows that adequate sleep supports your mind-body connection by promoting cognitive function and emotional regulation that reinforce neural pathways involved in movement and learning. Dana Santas, CNN Money, 23 May 2025 On May 21, a federal judge in Boston ruled the administration violated a court order preventing deportation of migrants to countries not their own without adequate time to challenge the move. Zac Anderson, USA Today, 23 May 2025 Terra cotta boxes are attractive but heavy once filled with soil, so these require adequate support to hold their weight. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 23 May 2025 San Mames’ capacity is middling at 53,000 (nowhere near big enough for these clubs and sadly, the provisions for disabled fans sound less than adequate too). Phil Hay, New York Times, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for adequate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adequate
Adjective
  • Reading these reports alongs with your own research can give you a decent idea of which cruise ships are doing the most to reduce their impact.
    Lea Lane, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025
  • But the Tar Heel state has a decent amount of talent this year, and UNC does not appear to be in position to take advantage of it.
    Grace Raynor, New York Times, 30 May 2025
Adjective
  • However, the conditions are not satisfactory to all.
    Bailey Richards, People.com, 21 May 2025
  • The tablet also supports Dolby Atmos sound, and while the stereo separation is satisfactory, don't expect to be surrounded by the audio.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 21 May 2025
Adjective
  • The win was the fifth in a row for Detroit and 20th in its last 28 games, and raised its division-leading record to 35-21, good for a .655 winning percentage.
    Jon Vankin, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 June 2025
  • Final Thoughts If Chianti Classico once lived in the shadow of its own stereotypes—rustic or simple, a table wine for casual occasions—its best wines today reflect something far more compelling.
    Jessica Dupuy, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025
Adjective
  • In any case, for the other guests, the tripping goes fine.
    Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 28 May 2025
  • Together, the two properties form a seamless downtown ecosystem. Passport: Explore the finest destinations and experiences around the world in the Forbes Passport newsletter.
    Shivani Vora, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • Rather, Evans says, this viral moment is an opportunity to discuss what is acceptable and what isn't in a relationship.
    Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 29 May 2025
  • Growth without margin — also known as unprofitable growth — is no longer acceptable.
    Emil Sayegh, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adequate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adequate. Accessed 6 Jun. 2025.

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