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 sleep is linked to not only disrupted cognitive function, but also a higher risk of injury, obesity, depression and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

Insufficient information impacts Texas’s ability to fully understand flood risks statewide.

From Salon • Jul. 22, 2025

Insufficient access to information in Spanish and low political efficacy keep the community from fruitful civic engagement.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 16, 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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