be adequate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be adequate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something meets a certain standard or is sufficient for a particular purpose. Example: "The resources provided should be adequate to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It would not be adequate".

Independent

That will not be adequate.

Independent

He says Giuliani would be "adequate".

The New Yorker

The airway protection appears to be adequate.

Resuscitation

Dr. Spence, among others, considers 350 picomoles to be adequate.

The New York Times - Health

But the INDC itself may not be adequate.

The Guardian

Pearlman's dearest subject may indeed be adequate happiness.

The New Yorker

You will be adequate in your new role.

The New Yorker

There should be adequate financial resources to wage the campaign.

The New Yorker

The spread seems to be adequate for the IPO.

Nature

Can money ever be adequate to the value backing it?

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be adequate", ensure the context clearly defines what standard or requirement is being met. For instance, specify "be adequate for the task" rather than simply "be adequate".

Common error

Avoid using "be adequate" when a stronger term like "excellent" or "superior" is more appropriate. Accurately reflect the level of sufficiency to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be adequate" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used with a linking verb (be) to describe a subject's state of sufficiency or suitability. As Ludwig AI pointed out, it indicates that something meets a certain standard or requirement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

50%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be adequate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that conveys sufficiency or suitability. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It finds application across diverse domains, especially in Science and News, although less so in academic or highly formal business writing. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: ensure that the context explicitly states the standard or requirement being met. While "be adequate" is versatile, avoid overstating or understating the degree of sufficiency it implies. Its neutral tone suits a variety of writing styles, making it a useful addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be sufficient

Indicates having enough to meet requirements; slightly stronger emphasis on quantity or amount than "be adequate".

suffice

A more formal synonym for "be enough"; implies meeting a need or purpose.

be enough

A more concise way of expressing sufficiency; lacks the formality of "be adequate".

be satisfactory

Focuses on meeting expectations or standards; emphasizes quality rather than quantity.

be acceptable

Implies being good enough or permissible; can suggest a lower standard than "be adequate".

be suitable

Indicates fitness for a specific purpose; highlights appropriateness more than general adequacy.

measure up

An idiomatic expression meaning to meet a required standard; less formal than "be adequate".

do the trick

An informal expression meaning to achieve the desired result; less about general adequacy and more about effectiveness.

pass muster

Another idiomatic expression meaning to be approved or accepted; implies a more critical evaluation.

cut the mustard

An informal idiom for being good enough to succeed or compete; considerably less formal.

FAQs

How can I use "be adequate" in a sentence?

You can use "be adequate" to indicate that something meets a certain requirement or is sufficient for a particular purpose. For example: "The resources provided should "be adequate" to complete the project on time".

What can I say instead of "be adequate"?

You can use alternatives like "be sufficient", "be satisfactory", or "be acceptable" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "be adequate"?

Use "be adequate" when something meets the minimum requirements or is good enough for a specific purpose, but not necessarily outstanding or exceptional. It implies a satisfactory level of sufficiency.

What's the difference between "be adequate" and "be enough"?

"Be adequate" is generally more formal and implies meeting a specific standard or requirement, while "be enough" is more informal and simply indicates that something is sufficient.