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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.

That lawsuit was dismissed in June, with Liman finding the claims legally insufficient.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

It comes after it emerged the police launched an investigation into Mills in 2016 before closing it in 2019 after prosecutors decided there was insufficient evidence to bring charges.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

The DOJ routinely declines to prosecute cases for any number of reasons, including insufficient evidence or because a case is not a priority for enforcement.

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2026

Possible breaches included providing "insufficient measures to prevent new under 16 accounts being created".

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

“How many years until moving cities becomes insufficient? What is the solution beyond that? Changing our names? I...I do not enjoy being forced into such deceptions.”

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.