Definitions

insufficient

[in-suh-fish-uhnt] / ˌɪn səˈfɪʃ ənt /

ADJECTIVE

not enough; lacking

Synonyms

STRONGEST

deficient faulty inadequate incomplete meager poor scant scarce unsatisfactory

WEAK

bereft defective destitute devoid drained dry failing imperfect incapable incommensurate incompetent infrequent minus out of rare short short of shy thin too little too late unample unfinished unfitted unqualified wanting

Antonyms

STRONGEST

adequate enough perfect satisfactory strong sufficient

WEAK

ample

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Insufficient airflow control can prevent the vortex from forming, causing the fire to behave more like a conventional burn.

From Science Daily • Jun. 5, 2026

Insufficient memory results in high-powered chips sitting idle, despite all their processing speed, as they wait to recruit extra memory from nearby chips.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

Insufficient staffing and incomplete applications were the other reasons provided for processing delays.

From BBC • Feb. 12, 2025

Insufficient potassium, which mostly comes from fruit and vegetables, is another big cause of high blood pressure.

From Salon • Jan. 30, 2024

Insufficient though it is, it still comes at a high price.

From "Class Matters" by The New York Times

Vocabulary lists containing insufficient

Figurative Language in King's "I Have a Dream" Speech (1963)

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Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" Speech (1963)

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Bridge to Terabithia

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