adequate

Everyday

1. Adequate means enough or good enough for a need or purpose. tree →
2. Adequate can mean only just good enough, not very good. tree →

In the lessons

Formal word in exam language, science and safety: «adequate water», «adequate light», «adequate protection». In school reports, «adequate» work is acceptable but could be better. In maths, it may mean «enough to cover the need».

Examples

• Make sure you drink an adequate amount of water. tree →
• The room had adequate light for reading. tree →
• Is 20 pounds adequate for the trip? tree →
• Her work was adequate, but she can do better. tree →
• Plants need adequate sunlight to grow. tree →
• The tent gave adequate shelter from the rain. tree →

Note

Opposite: inadequate. Noun: adequacy. Said «AD-ih-kwit». In everyday speech «enough» is simpler. «Adequate» is weaker praise than «good».