Definition of Sufficient
Quick Meaning of Sufficient
Adequate or enough for what is needed; having as much as required.
Detailed Definition of Sufficient
Enough in quantity or quality to meet a need or requirement.
How to Pronounce Sufficient
Stress pattern: oOo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Three syllables: suh-FISH-unt. Stress on second syllable. /ə/ is schwa, /ɪ/ like "sit", /ʃ/ is "sh", /ənt/ ends neutrally.
Watch out: Pronounced as "suh-FICE-ent" with /aɪs/ instead of /ɪʃ/; correct middle syllable is "FISH" /fɪʃ/.
Origin and Etymology of Sufficient
From Latin "sufficiens", from "sufferre" (to bear, endure); means adequate.
How to Use Sufficient in a Sentence
Each example shows “sufficient” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Two weeks is a sufficient amount of time to prepare for the exam.”
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“The budget is sufficient for all the planned expenses.”
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“They have sufficient evidence to support their claim in court.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Sufficient
Common Synonyms for Sufficient
Smart Synonyms for Sufficient — When to Use Each
- adequate
- when barely meeting minimum requirements
- ample
- when there is more than enough available
- enough
- informal alternative; less formal register
Antonyms of Sufficient
Common Collocations with Sufficient
These phrases pair with “sufficient” in everyday English:
- sufficient time
- sufficient funds
- sufficient evidence
- not sufficient
- sufficient reason
Common Mistakes When Using Sufficient
Even fluent speakers slip up with “sufficient”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: Your experience is sufficient enough for this job.
- ✓ Correct: Your experience is sufficient for this job.
- Why: Do not use "sufficient enough"; it is redundant. Choose either "sufficient" or "enough".
- ✗ Wrong: We have sufficient resources to complete the project on-time.
- ✓ Correct: We have sufficient resources to complete the project on time.
- Why: "On time" is two words, not hyphenated as "on-time", unless it is used as an attributive adjective (e.g., "on-time delivery").
Words Confused With Sufficient
- Sufficient vs Deficient: Sufficient means having enough; deficient means lacking or not having enough. They are antonyms.
Other Forms of Sufficient
- Noun: sufficiency
- Adjective: sufficient
- Adverb: sufficiently
Frequently Asked Questions About Sufficient
What is the meaning of "Sufficient"?
Adequate or enough for what is needed; having as much as required.
How do you pronounce "Sufficient"?
The IPA is /səˈfɪʃ.ənt/. Three syllables: suh-FISH-unt. Stress on second syllable. /ə/ is schwa, /ɪ/ like "sit", /ʃ/ is "sh", /ənt/ ends neutrally.
What part of speech is "Sufficient"?
"Sufficient" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Sufficient"?
Common synonyms include adequate, enough, ample.
How do you use "Sufficient" in a sentence?
For example: "Two weeks is a sufficient amount of time to prepare for the exam."