C1adjective5K

Insufficient

UK /["/ˌɪnsəˈfɪʃnt/"]/US /["/ˌɪnsəˈfɪʃnt/"]/

Definition

not large, strong or important enough for a particular purpose

In simple words: not enough

Examples

insufficient time
The management paid insufficient attention to working conditions.
There are fears that the existing flood barrier may prove insufficient.
I’m afraid we have insufficient evidence.
His salary is insufficient to meet his needs.
The plan was to refurbish the whole building but the funds raised were insufficient for the purpose.

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts, such as reports or academic writing. Avoid in casual conversations. Common in financial or resource-related discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'in-sufficient' as 'in' meaning without and 'sufficient' meaning enough.

Collocations

be
prove
quite
wholly
simply
for

Synonyms

inadequate
deficient
meager
scanty
lacking

Antonyms

sufficient
adequate
ample

Common mistakes

Confused with 'sufficient' which means enough.
Omitting the context, e.g., saying 'insufficient' without stating what is insufficient.
Using inappropriately in informal settings.