it is inadequate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is inadequate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that does not meet the necessary standards or requirements. Example: "The current budget for the project is inadequate to cover all expenses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But it is inadequate on its own to confirm, or even imply, such a significant liaison.

The New York Times - Arts

It is inadequate in terms of its scope, it is inadequate in terms of its information technology, leadership, management systems and processes," he told MPs.

The Guardian

Shrivastava (1995) criticized the TMA because of its' anthropocentric view and claimed that it is inadequate to meet the requirements of risk societies.

Business Research

It is "inadequate," she wrote.

The New York Times

Without them it is inadequate.

The Guardian

In the case of historical memory, it is inadequate.

The New York Times - Arts

But it is inadequate for cycling even at my level.

The New York Times - Tech

It cripples people because it is inadequate, inaccessible and degrading.

The New York Times

"As grandiose as Mike's expensive habitat may look, it is inadequate for a tiger.

The New York Times - Sports

It is inadequate to the enormity of grief it must contain.

The New Yorker

Whatever tale she has fashioned, it is inadequate to the simple fact of her abnormal thirst.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is inadequate", clearly state what "it" refers to and the specific reason for its inadequacy. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "it is inadequate" without specifying the context or reason. Simply stating something is inadequate without further explanation can leave your audience confused and unconvinced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is inadequate" functions as a declarative statement. It expresses a judgment or assessment about something, indicating that it does not meet a certain standard or requirement. As shown by Ludwig's examples, the phrase is frequently used to express deficiency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is inadequate" is a versatile expression used to convey that something does not meet the required standards or expectations. Ludwig's analysis, backed by numerous examples, demonstrates its prevalence in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, ensure clarity by specifying the subject and reasons for inadequacy. Consider alternatives like "it is insufficient" or "it falls short" for nuanced expression. The high frequency and varied usage highlight its importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is insufficient

This alternative emphasizes a lack of quantity or amount.

it is not enough

This alternative highlights that the current state fails to meet a required threshold.

it is deficient

This alternative stresses a lack of essential qualities or components.

it is lacking

This alternative points out the absence of something necessary or expected.

it falls short

This alternative suggests a failure to reach a desired standard or goal.

it is wanting

This alternative implies a need for something that is not currently present.

it is not up to par

This alternative indicates that something does not meet the expected level of quality or performance.

it is unsuitable

This alternative emphasizes that something is not appropriate or fitting for a particular purpose.

it is unfit

This alternative suggests that something is not in the right condition or state to be used.

it is compromised

This alternative implies that something has been weakened or damaged, making it less effective.

FAQs

How can I use "it is inadequate" in a sentence?

Use "it is inadequate" to express that something doesn't meet the required standard or expectation. For example, "The funding for the project "it is inadequate" to cover all the necessary expenses."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is inadequate"?

You can use phrases like "it is insufficient", "it falls short", or "it is lacking" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "it is inadequate" or "it's inadequate"?

"It is inadequate" is slightly more formal than "it's inadequate". The contracted form, "it's", is generally acceptable in most contexts, but the full form is preferred in highly formal or academic writing.

What's the difference between "it is inadequate" and "it is inappropriate"?

"It is inadequate" means something doesn't meet the required standard or quantity, whereas "it is inappropriate" means something is unsuitable or not fitting for a particular situation. The former refers to a deficiency, while the latter refers to a lack of suitability.