insufficient
UK: ˌɪnsəˈfɪʃ(ə)nt | US: ˌɪnsəˈfɪʃ(ə)nt
adj. not enough in quantity, quality, or degree; inadequate
insufficient = in<not> + sufficient<enough>
- in-: A prefix from Latin meaning "not" or "opposite of," often used to negate the root word (e.g., inactive, invisible).
- sufficient: Derived from Latin sufficiens (from sufficere: sub- "under" + facere "to make"), meaning "enough" or "adequate."
Etymology Origin:
The word insufficient combines the Latin negative prefix in- with sufficient, creating a term that literally means "not enough." The root sufficient evolved from the idea of "making under" (i.e., meeting a need), while in- flips the meaning to highlight inadequacy. This logical pairing reflects how Latin prefixes and roots were systematically combined in English to form precise opposites.
The evidence was insufficient to convict the suspect.
Her income proved insufficient to cover the rising costs.
The team’s preparation seemed insufficient for the challenge ahead.
Insufficient sleep can negatively impact your health.
The report highlighted insufficient funding for public schools.