Sufficiently Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sufficiently

[səˈfɪʃ.ənt.li ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a satisfactory way

To a degree that is enough or satisfactory; adequately. To a degree that satisfies a requirement or need; satisfactorily.

Synonyms

adequately, amply, enough.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sufficiently

Utilized in formal or technical contexts to convey that a particular amount or level meets a requirement or standard.

  • The project was sufficiently funded.
  • She was sufficiently prepared for the exam.
adequately

Often used in formal and informal contexts to indicate that something meets basic or minimum requirements or standards, but may not exceed them.

  • He was adequately trained for the job.
  • The room was adequately ventilated.
enough

Commonly used in everyday language to indicate a sufficient quantity or degree. It can apply to various contexts from casual to formal.

  • He has enough money to buy a car.
  • Is the food enough for everyone?
amply

Typically used in expressive contexts to emphasize that there is more than enough of something, often with a positive connotation.

  • The team was amply rewarded for their efforts.
  • She was amply qualified for the position.

Examples of usage

  • She was not sufficiently prepared for the exam.
  • The company has not grown sufficiently to justify the investment.
Context #2 | Adverb

to a significant extent or degree

To a significant extent or degree; considerably. To an extent that is enough or satisfactory; fairly.

Synonyms

considerably, fairly, significantly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sufficiently

Used when something meets the necessary or required level, often to indicate adequacy.

  • The food was sufficiently cooked.
  • The report was sufficiently detailed.
considerably

Used to describe a notable or significant amount or degree, often when something is more than average.

  • The project has considerably improved.
  • He has considerably more experience than others.
significantly

Used when something has a large or important impact or effect, often in measurable terms.

  • Her health has improved significantly.
  • The changes will significantly affect the outcome.
fairly

Used to describe a moderate level or degree of something, often meaning reasonably but not extremely.

  • She did fairly well on the test.
  • The movie was fairly interesting.

Examples of usage

  • The new policy has not sufficiently addressed the issue.
  • The team worked sufficiently hard to achieve their goal.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research suggests that feeling sufficient in resources can lead to greater psychological wellbeing and lower anxiety levels.
  • The concept of sufficiency is crucial in decision-making, where individuals assess whether they have enough information to make choices confidently.
  • In relationships, the sense of emotional sufficiency can enhance bonding and reduce conflicts, as partners feel their needs are being met.

Literature

  • In literature, characters often grapple with the theme of sufficiency, depicting how the quest for ‘enough’ can drive their motivations and actions.
  • Famous works like 'Gatsby' explore the contrast between sufficiency and excess, highlighting a critique of the American Dream.
  • Poets often use the idea of sufficiency to evoke a sense of contentment in nature and life, suggesting that happiness comes from having 'enough'.

Economics

  • In economics, the idea of sufficiency is foundational in resource allocation, determining how to meet demand effectively.
  • The concept of sufficiency is often contrasted with abundance, emphasizing minimalism and sustainability in modern economic discussions.
  • A sufficient economy is one that balances production with consumption, aiming for equitable distribution and well-being.

Education

  • In education, sufficiency can relate to the necessary skills and knowledge required for effective learning, ensuring students have what they need to succeed.
  • Teaching strategies often aim to create sufficient conditions for learning, addressing the varied needs and abilities of students.
  • Sufficient resources in classrooms, like materials and teacher support, play a crucial role in student engagement and success.

Origin of 'sufficiently'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'sufficientem', meaning 'to meet' or 'to satisfy', highlighting its core idea of adequacy.
  • It entered English in the late 14th century, evolving in usage to mean having enough for a purpose.
  • The prefix 'suff-' comes from 'sub-', meaning under, and 'facere', meaning to make, which together convey the idea of providing what is underneath what is needed.

The word 'sufficiently' originated from the Latin word 'sufficiens', which means 'supplying enough'. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century. The concept of being 'sufficient' has always been important in various contexts, such as in philosophy, economics, and everyday life, to denote an amount or degree that meets a specific requirement or need.


See also: insufficiency, insufficiently.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,179, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.