Insufficient
easyNegative tonein-suh-FISH-unt
adjective
Definition
Not enough; inadequate
Memory hook
IN-SUFFICIENT: NOT SUFFICIENT — not enough to meet the need.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The evidence was insufficient to convict the defendant.”
“Insufficient funding caused the project to be delayed.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The evidence was ______ to convict the defendant.”
Show answer
insufficient
Categories
GRE Tip
Insufficient is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "inadequate" or "deficient" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "sufficient".
Related GRE Words
meager
Lacking in quantity or quality; insufficient
scarce
Insufficient for the demand; rare
wanting
Lacking in a certain required quality; deficient
abundant
Existing or available in large quantities; plentiful
bountiful
Large in quantity; abundant; giving generously
deficient
Not having enough of a specified quality or ingredient; inadequate
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