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.

Sukhdeep Singh, who owns Merced County-based Cali Brothers Truck Lines, said standard surcharge policies are insufficient when there are wild swings in fuel prices.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Fare increases are likely insufficient to offset higher fuel costs for Air China, China Southern Airlines and China Eastern Airlines, the analyst adds.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

"Early advice was sought from the Crown Prosecution Service, but detectives determined that there was insufficient evidence to bring forward criminal charges."

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

On Monday, he said a temporary ceasefire proposal being circulated was insufficient.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

And now she was very conscious that she ought to have prevented them.—She felt that she had been risking her friend’s happiness on most insufficient grounds.

From "Emma" by Jane Austen

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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