Subpar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

👎

Add to dictionary

subpar

[sʌbˈpɑː ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

performance evaluation

Below an average level; not up to the expected standard.

Synonyms

below average, below par, inferior, poor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subpar	Use this word to describe something that is below the expected standard, typically in a business or performance-related context. His performance in the last quarter was subpar. The service at the restaurant was subpar.
below average	This phrase is typically used in formal contexts, like academics or assessments, to indicate something that falls short of the mean level. Her grades this semester are below average. The company's sales were below average this year.
inferior	Use this word when you want to emphasize that something is of lower quality or lesser value in a more general sense. It can have a negative connotation. The new product is inferior to the old version. These shoes are of inferior quality.
below par	Often seen in more professional or formal settings, this phrase can describe the condition of something that doesn't meet a standard or expectation. The report was below par and needed major revisions. Her performance in the meeting was below par.
poor	Typically used to describe low quality or unsatisfactory performance, often implying disappointment. The team's poor performance cost them the game. She gave a poor presentation.

Examples of usage

The team's subpar performance cost them the championship.
His subpar acting skills were evident in the movie.
The restaurant received subpar reviews for its food quality.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

golf terminology

A score that is below the average or expected level in golf.

Synonyms

below average, inferior, under par.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subpar	Used in general situations to describe something that is below expectations or standards. His performance was subpar compared to the rest of the team The quality of the hotel service was subpar
below average	Typically used in academic or performance contexts to describe something that is not reaching the expected average level. Her test scores were below average this semester The player's performance in the last game was below average
under par	Usually used in golf to indicate a score that is better than the expected number of strokes. In other contexts, it suggests below the usual or expected level. His score of 71 is under par in this golf tournament The quality of the meal was under par for a five-star restaurant
inferior	Often used in a comparative context with a negative connotation, emphasizing that something is worse than something else. This product is inferior to its competitors They considered the new plan to be inferior to the old one

Examples of usage

He finished the round with a subpar score of 70.
Her consistent subpar performances led to her victory in the tournament.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

In golf, achieving 'par' means completing a hole in the expected number of strokes, so being 'subpar' indicates a below-average performance.
The term is also used in other sports, suggesting a performance that doesn't measure up to competitive standards.
Athletes may sometimes refer to their form or performance as 'subpar' when injuries or personal issues affect their game.

Business

In corporate environments, 'subpar' often describes products or services that fail to meet quality expectations, impacting customer satisfaction.
Companies may work to improve 'subpar' departments by investing more in training and resources to uplift standards.
Performance reviews may label an employee's work as 'subpar' when it doesn't meet company benchmarks or goals.

Education

Academic performance can also be deemed 'subpar' when students score below passing grades or expectations set by educational standards.
Teachers strive to help students overcome 'subpar' learning habits through personalized attention and resources.
The term can trigger discussions about the importance of support systems in schools to avoid 'subpar' outcomes for students.

Origin of 'subpar'

Main points about word origin

The prefix 'sub-' comes from Latin, meaning 'under' or 'below'.
The word 'par' originates from the Latin 'par', meaning equal or standard, often used in golf to signify the expected score.
Combining 'sub' and 'par' literally means below the standard or average level.

The word 'subpar' originated in the early 20th century, combining the prefix 'sub-' meaning 'under' or 'below' with 'par', a term from golf meaning the standard score for a hole or course. It has since been widely used in various contexts to describe something that is below average or expected quality.