Cool MateAdequate vs Adequately
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Adequate | Adequately | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Good enough for what is needed. | well enough; sufficiently |
| CEFR level | B2 | B2 |
| Part of speech | adjective | adverb |
| Usage notes | Use 'adequate' when something meets the necessary requirements, but is not exceptional. It's often used in formal contexts, like reports or evaluations. | Use 'adequately' when you mean something meets the necessary standards but doesn't exceed them. It's suitable in both written and spoken contexts. |
Frequently asked questions: Adequate vs Adequately
What's the difference between "Adequate" and "Adequately"?
"Adequate" means: Good enough for what is needed. "Adequately" means: well enough; sufficiently
When should I use "Adequate" and "Adequately"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Adequate" and "Adequately" the same CEFR level?
"Adequate" is at B2, "Adequately" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.