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.

Supplements may be useful when dietary intake is insufficient or osteoporosis is present, but excessive intake should be avoided.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

"It didn't limit student use of AI in any way -- so, completely insufficient, inadequate."

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

A fifth defendant, Momoh Otuho Abubakar, was discharged and acquitted by the court due to insufficient evidence against him.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

Author Andrew Lownie says there is still insufficient transparency in the UK about information relating to Mountbatten-Windsor and he's called for a parliamentary inquiry into his time as trade envoy.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

If the magistrate decided there was insufficient evidence, the defendants were discharged.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

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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