an adequate amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an adequate amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a sufficient quantity of something, indicating that it meets a certain standard or requirement. Example: "To ensure the project is successful, we need to allocate an adequate amount of resources for research and development."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Five litres was not an adequate amount of water".

Independent

We have given them an adequate amount of training".

Independent

Yet for all of calcium's importance, only one American in five consumes an adequate amount.

The New York Times - Health

One is, does it really give you an adequate amount of time to check the records?

The New York Times

"I would have an adequate amount for an adequate lifestyle for 10 years," he said.

The New York Times

Your companionship and assistance will help a patient eat and drink an adequate amount.

Harvard University

You'll need about a ton/acre to achieve an adequate amount of N (60 lb/ac).

Cornell University

Some people, despite taking an adequate amount in through their diet, lose too much protein.

Independent

Without an adequate amount of vitamin B12, the body is unable to synthesize DNA properly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's not a great amount, it's not an adequate amount, but it's a start".

The New York Times

It has to be reasonably secured with an adequate amount of interest".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing requirements or recommendations, ensure that you specify what constitutes "an adequate amount" in quantifiable terms to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "an adequate amount" without specifying the unit or measure. For example, instead of saying "add an adequate amount of water", specify "add 2 cups of water" to make the instruction precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an adequate amount" functions as a determiner phrase specifying a quantity that meets a particular need or requirement. It modifies a noun, indicating that the quantity is sufficient but not necessarily excessive, as shown in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

34%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an adequate amount" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate a quantity that is sufficient to meet a specific need or requirement. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples across diverse fields such as science, news, and general writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the context makes clear what specific unit or measure is being referred to, avoiding vagueness. Alternatives include "a sufficient quantity", "an acceptable level", and "a reasonable quantity", which can be used depending on the desired level of formality and nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sufficient quantity

Replaces "adequate" with "sufficient", emphasizing the idea of meeting a requirement or need.

a satisfactory measure

Substitutes both "adequate" and "amount" with synonyms, focusing on the acceptability of the quantity.

an acceptable level

Shifts from quantity to level, implying a standard that is considered permissible or tolerable.

a reasonable quantity

Emphasizes fairness and justification of the specified amount.

an ample supply

Focuses on the provision or availability of something in a generous or plentiful measure.

a fitting proportion

Highlights the appropriateness of the amount in relation to a specific context or purpose.

an appropriate dose

Specifically refers to a measured quantity, often in a medical or scientific context.

a suitable volume

Emphasizes the capacity or space occupied by the amount, suggesting it is well-suited for its purpose.

a fair share

Implies an equitable or just allocation of the amount among multiple parties.

a decent portion

Uses a more informal tone to suggest a reasonably sized or satisfactory amount.

FAQs

How can I use "an adequate amount" in a sentence?

You can use "an adequate amount" to describe a quantity that is sufficient or satisfactory for a particular purpose. For example, "Ensure you get "an adequate amount of sleep" each night for optimal health."

What are some alternatives to saying "an adequate amount"?

Alternatives include "a sufficient quantity", "an acceptable level", or "a reasonable quantity", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "adequate amount" or "sufficient amount"?

Both "adequate amount" and "sufficient amount" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on personal preference, although "sufficient" might imply a greater degree of meeting the need compared to "adequate".

What does "adequate" really mean in the context of "an adequate amount"?

In this context, "adequate" means enough to meet a specific requirement or need. It implies that the amount is satisfactory without being excessive.