are inadequate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are inadequate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is insufficient or not meeting a required standard. Example: "The resources provided for the project are inadequate to meet the deadlines we have set."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Current treatments are inadequate.

The Economist

All are inadequate.

The New York Times

Our airports are inadequate.

The New York Times

Stones are inadequate against gunfire.

The Economist

Anti-inflammatory ones are inadequate.

The New York Times

But these are inadequate in many ways.

The Economist

The current aid structures are inadequate.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Commissions and promises are inadequate," he added.

The New York Times

However, most of them, too, are inadequate.

The Guardian - Opinion

Other terms are inadequate ("terrorist") or inaccurate.

The Guardian

(d) Gold-leaf supplies are inadequate.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are inadequate", ensure the context clearly defines what the subject is inadequate for. Specificity strengthens the statement and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are inadequate" when "are slightly insufficient" is more accurate. Overstating can weaken your argument and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are inadequate" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a subject as being insufficient or not meeting a certain requirement. Ludwig AI supports this function, providing numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are inadequate" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something is not sufficient or up to the required standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and business, making it a versatile phrase for expressing deficiency or insufficiency. When using "are inadequate", be specific about what the subject is inadequate for to avoid ambiguity. While grammatically sound and generally well-regarded, as the "aiResponseStatus" confirms, be aware of potential overstatements and select more precise language when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are insufficient

Focuses on the lack of quantity or amount needed.

are deficient

Highlights a lack of essential qualities or elements.

are lacking

Emphasizes the absence of something necessary.

are not enough

A simpler, more direct way of expressing inadequacy.

fall short

Implies a failure to reach a required standard or expectation.

are not up to par

Indicates that something does not meet the expected level of quality.

are not fit for purpose

Suggests that something is unsuitable for its intended use.

are wanting

Highlights a deficiency or lack in a more formal tone.

do not measure up

Emphasizes a failure to meet a certain standard or benchmark.

are not satisfactory

Focuses on the failure to meet expectations or requirements.

FAQs

What does "are inadequate" mean?

The phrase "are inadequate" means that something is not sufficient or good enough for a particular purpose or need. It suggests a deficiency or lack of the necessary qualities or quantity.

How to use "are inadequate" in a sentence?

You can use "are inadequate" to describe resources, skills, or systems. For example: "The current treatments "are inadequate" for treating this disease" or "The existing security measures "are inadequate" to protect against cyber attacks".

What can I say instead of "are inadequate"?

You can use alternatives like "are insufficient", "are deficient", or "are lacking" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "are inadequate"?

It is appropriate to use "are inadequate" when you want to express that something does not meet the required standard or is insufficient to fulfill a specific need or purpose. Use it in situations where a clear deficiency exists.