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Dictionary-enhanced synonyms

Synonyms for “Sufficient” — 4 Other Ways to Say It

Adequate or enough for what is needed; having as much as required.

IPA: /səˈfɪʃ.ənt/Level: B2Register: formalPart of speech: adj

Meaning of Sufficient

Enough in quantity or quality to meet a need or requirement.

How to Pronounce Sufficient

IPA: /səˈfɪʃ.ənt/ Stress: oOo

Three syllables: suh-FISH-unt. Stress on second syllable. /ə/ is schwa, /ɪ/ like "sit", /ʃ/ is "sh", /ənt/ ends neutrally.

Full pronunciation guide for sufficient →

4 Synonyms for Sufficient — Words Similar to Sufficient

Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.

adequate

/ˈædɪkwət/
adj B2

Good enough for what you need. Not great, but it does the job.

Example: The parking at the shopping center is adequate for most customers.

enough

/ɪˈnʌf/
adj A1

When you have enough of something, you have all of it that you need.

Example: Do we have enough time to finish the project today?

ample

/ˈæmpəl/
adj C1 Formal

There is plenty of something; much more than needed. Large in size or amount.

Example: The university provides ample funding for research projects and student development.

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 — Opposite Words

How to Use Sufficient and Its Synonyms in Sentences

  • Two weeks is a sufficient amount of time to prepare for the exam. B2
  • The budget is sufficient for all the planned expenses. B2
  • They have sufficient evidence to support their claim in court. B2

Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Sufficient

What is another word for "sufficient"?

Common synonyms for "sufficient" include: adequate, enough, ample, satisfactory.

What can I say instead of "sufficient"?

Try one of these alternatives: adequate, enough, ample, satisfactory. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.

Is "sufficient" formal or informal?

"sufficient" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.

When should I use "sufficient" instead of "adequate"?

Use "sufficient" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "adequate" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.

What are the antonyms of "sufficient"?

Words with the opposite meaning of "sufficient" include: insufficient, inadequate, deficient.

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