Inadequate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
inadequate
[ษชหnรฆdษชkwษt ]
Definitions
behavior
Not enough or not good enough; not acceptable or satisfactory
Synonyms
deficient, insufficient, substandard, unsatisfactory.
Examples of usage
- The company's response to the crisis was inadequate.
- His salary is inadequate to support his family.
- She felt inadequate compared to her peers.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feelings of inadequacy often stem from comparison with others, which can impact self-esteem and motivation.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) often addresses perceptions of inadequacy by challenging negative thoughts.
- Research shows that adults who feel inadequate may engage in procrastination or avoidance behavior to bypass feelings of failure.
Education
- The concept is frequently discussed in educational settings, highlighting a studentโs belief that they are not meeting academic standards.
- Teachers often seek to combat feelings of inadequacy in students by providing constructive feedback and support.
- Inadequate resources in schools can impact the quality of education provided to students, further perpetuating feelings of not being good enough.
Pop Culture
- In popular films, characters may face challenges that showcase their feelings of inadequacy, making their eventual triumphs more impactful.
- Songs often explore themes of feeling inadequate in relationships, resonating with listeners who share similar experiences.
- Media representation of mental health often sheds light on inadequacy feelings, promoting awareness and understanding.
Origin of 'inadequate'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'inadequatus', meaning 'not adequate', with 'ad' meaning 'to' and 'aequus' meaning 'level' or 'equal'.
- It first appeared in English in the late 19th century, capturing the essence of being insufficient or lacking.
- The prefix 'in-' indicates negation, while 'adequate' refers to being sufficient or satisfactory.
The word 'inadequate' originated in the mid-17th century from the Latin word 'inadequatus', which means 'not equal to'. Over time, it has evolved to represent the idea of something not being enough or not meeting the required standards. The concept of inadequacy is commonly explored in psychology and social sciences, highlighting the importance of self-worth and confidence.
See also: adequacy, adequately, inadequately.