not enough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not enough" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to denote that something is inadequate, insufficient, or not enough to meet a certain standard. For example, "The applicants' qualifications were not enough to get the job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Not enough!" Marr exclaims.

The Guardian

Not enough people did.

The New Yorker

It's always not enough.

The New York Times - Sports

Knowing was not enough.

The New York Times - Sports

DIMON: Not enough cement.

The New Yorker

Goodwill is not enough.

The Economist

Close is not enough.

The New York Times - Sports

Not enough fresh fruit.

The New York Times

Gail: Not enough.

The New York Times

It was not enough.

The New York Times

Not enough Americans vote.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not enough", ensure the context clearly defines what standard or requirement is not being met.

Common error

Avoid using "not enough" without specifying what is insufficient. Always provide context to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not enough" primarily functions as a post-qualifier, typically modifying a noun or noun phrase to indicate a deficiency in quantity, quality, or degree. As Ludwig AI indicates, it points out that a certain requirement or expectation has not been met.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not enough" is a versatile and common expression used to indicate that something is insufficient or inadequate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, it effectively conveys a sense of lack or deficiency. When using "not enough", ensure clarity by specifying what standard is not being met. Alternatives like "insufficient" or "inadequate" can be used for a more formal tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

too little

This alternative directly expresses that the quantity is insufficient.

insufficient

This alternative is a formal synonym indicating a lack of adequacy.

inadequate

This alternative is another formal synonym that suggests a deficiency in quality or quantity.

lacking

This alternative focuses on the absence of something necessary.

not ample

This alternative indicates that the supply or amount is not abundant or plentiful.

scarce

This alternative emphasizes the limited availability of something.

falls short

This alternative is an idiomatic expression meaning something does not reach the required standard.

not up to par

This alternative suggests that something doesn't meet the expected level of quality.

deficient

This alternative is a more technical term for lacking an essential quality or element.

underwhelming

This alternative suggests that something is disappointing because it does not impress or excite.

FAQs

How can I use "not enough" in a sentence?

You can use "not enough" to indicate that something is insufficient to meet a particular need or standard. For example, "There was "not enough time" to complete the project".

What are some alternatives to saying "not enough"?

Some alternatives to "not enough" include "insufficient", "inadequate", or "lacking", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "no enough" instead of "not enough"?

No, "no enough" is grammatically incorrect. The correct expression is "not enough".

What's the difference between "not enough" and "not sufficient"?

"Not enough" is a more common and informal way of saying that something is insufficient. "Not sufficient" is more formal but carries the same meaning.