Inadequacy: meaning, definitions and examples
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inadequacy
[ɪˌnædɪˈkwəsi ]
Definition
feeling of
The state or quality of being inadequate; lack of the quantity or quality required.
Synonyms
deficiency, insufficiency, shortcoming.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| inadequacy |
Used when something does not meet the required standard or is not enough to fulfill a need. Often used in both personal and technical contexts.
|
| insufficiency |
Used to describe something that is not enough in quantity or quality to meet a particular need or requirement. Commonly used in formal or technical contexts.
|
| deficiency |
Used when there is a lack or shortage of something, often in the context of health, nutrition, or resources.
|
| shortcoming |
Used to highlight an area where someone or something is lacking or below expectation. Often refers to personal faults or minor issues.
|
Examples of usage
- The inadequacy of the team's performance was evident in the final result.
- She felt a sense of inadequacy when comparing herself to her successful colleagues.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word originates from the Latin 'inadequatus,' which means 'not adequate or insufficient.'
- The prefix 'in-' negates the term, suggesting a lack of adequacy or fitness.
- The modern usage began in the 19th century, evolving to encompass emotional and psychological contexts.
Psychology
- Feelings of inadequacy can lead to low self-esteem and affect mental health significantly.
- Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a fraud, stemming from feelings of inadequacy.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy often addresses these feelings by challenging negative thoughts and rebuilding self-worth.
Literature
- Many authors explore themes of inadequacy, like F. Scott Fitzgerald in 'The Great Gatsby,' where characters grapple with unfulfilled dreams.
- Shakespeare's characters often deal with feelings of inadequacy, leading to tragic outcomes, highlighting human fragility.
- Modern novels frequently depict coming-of-age experiences where protagonists confront their feelings of not being enough.
Pop Culture
- Songs like 'Fight Song' by Rachel Platten inspire overcoming feelings of inadequacy and embracing personal strength.
- Movies often portray characters who overcome their insecurities, depicting the struggle with inadequacy as a relatable human experience.
- Reality TV often amplifies feelings of inadequacy by comparing personal lives to curated, idealized versions presented on screen.
Education
- Students may experience inadequacy if they feel unprepared for classroom challenges, impacting their performance and motivation.
- In educational settings, encouraging a growth mindset helps combat feelings of inadequacy by promoting the idea that abilities can be developed.
- Peer pressure in school environments can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, as students compare their achievements to those of others.
Translations
Translations of the word "inadequacy" in other languages:
🇵🇹 inadequação
🇮🇳 अपर्याप्तता
🇩🇪 Unzulänglichkeit
🇮🇩 ketidakcukupan
🇺🇦 недостатність
🇵🇱 niewystarczalność
🇯🇵 不十分
🇫🇷 inadéquation
🇪🇸 inadecuación
🇹🇷 yetersizlik
🇰🇷 부족
🇸🇦 عدم الكفاية
🇨🇿 nedostatečnost
🇸🇰 nedostatočnosť
🇨🇳 不足
🇸🇮 neustreznost
🇮🇸 ófullnæging
🇰🇿 жеткіліксіздік
🇬🇪 არასაკმარისობა
🇦🇿 kifayətsizlik
🇲🇽 inadecuación