sufficient to

USAGE SUMMARY

"sufficient to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that something has enough capacity to achieve a certain goal. For example: "The resources available to us are sufficient to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is sufficient to be respected.

The Guardian

Are building codes sufficient to protect residents?

The New York Times

"That should be sufficient to exonerate me".

The New York Times - Magazine

This is sufficient to sustain it.

The New Yorker

But it is sufficient to stoke interest.

The Economist

Ordinarily this is sufficient to arouse suspicion.

The Guardian - Sport

It was sufficient to end her candidacy.

The New York Times

One anecdote is sufficient to illustrate this point.

The Guardian - Arts

Abolition may seem a cause sufficient to vindicate malpractice.

The Guardian - Film

This may be sufficient to stop the problem.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This process will be sufficient to seal the jars safely.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sufficient to", ensure the context clearly defines what standard or requirement is being met. For example, specify if resources are "sufficient to" complete a task or if evidence is "sufficient to" prove a claim.

Common error

Avoid using "sufficient to" when a stronger term like "guaranteed to" or "certain to" is more appropriate. "Sufficient to" implies adequacy, not necessarily a definitive outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sufficient to" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that something is adequate or meets a necessary requirement. Ludwig confirms its correct usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sufficient to" is a versatile expression used to convey that something is adequate or meets a particular requirement. Ludwig AI analysis shows the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, as confirmed by numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. While alternatives such as "enough to" or "adequate to" exist, "sufficient to" often adds a slightly more formal tone. When using this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the context makes clear what standard or goal is being met.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enough to

A more concise and commonly used alternative, implying adequacy for a specific purpose.

adequate to

Similar in meaning, but may suggest a minimum level of acceptability rather than abundance.

capable of

Focuses on the ability or capacity to achieve something, rather than the level of adequacy.

able to

Implies possibility and competence in achieving a goal or task.

competent to

Highlights the qualification and expertise necessary to fulfill a requirement.

equal to

Indicates equivalence in ability or capacity, often used in mathematical or comparative contexts.

qualified to

Suggests meeting the necessary standards or criteria for a particular role or task.

effective for

Emphasizes the successful outcome or impact of something, rather than its inherent sufficiency.

serves to

Indicates that something fulfills a specific purpose or function.

avails to

Implies that something is available or helpful in achieving a specific end.

FAQs

How can I use "sufficient to" in a sentence?

Use "sufficient to" to indicate that something is adequate or enough for a particular purpose. For instance, "The evidence was "sufficient to" convict the defendant" or "The funds are "sufficient to" complete the project."

What are some alternatives to "sufficient to"?

Alternatives include "enough to", "adequate to", or "capable of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "sufficient to" or "enough to"?

"Sufficient to" is generally more formal than "enough to". The best choice depends on the context and your desired level of formality.

What does "sufficient to" imply about the level of adequacy?

"Sufficient to" suggests that something meets the minimum requirements or standards needed. It does not necessarily imply an abundance or surplus, but rather a suitable quantity or quality.