insuficiente
Lemma Details
Translation: insufficient; inadequate; deficient; lacking
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: From Latin 'insufficiens', composed of the prefix 'in-' (not) and 'sufficiens' (sufficient, adequate). It shares the same Latin root as the English word 'insufficient'. The root 'sufficere' means 'to be enough' or 'to suffice', from 'sub-' (under) + 'facere' (to make, to do). The concept conveys something that falls under or below what is needed to fulfill a requirement.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Los fondos son insuficientes para completar el proyecto.
The funds are insufficient to complete the project.
Su preparación es insuficiente para este trabajo.
His preparation is inadequate for this job.
Recibió una calificación de insuficiente en el examen.
He received a failing grade on the exam.
La evidencia es insuficiente para llegar a una conclusión.
The evidence is insufficient to reach a conclusion.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'in-sufficient' - directly parallels the English word 'insufficient'
- Remember 'in' (not) + 'suficiente' (enough) = 'not enough'
- Visualize a cup that's not filled enough - it's 'insuficiente'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in academic, professional, and medical contexts. In educational settings, 'insuficiente' is often used as a grade meaning 'fail' or 'below passing standard'.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Insuficiente' means 'not enough' or 'inadequate in amount', while 'ineficiente' means 'inefficient' or 'not working effectively'.
This word:
El tiempo fue insuficiente para terminar la tarea.
The time was insufficient to finish the task.
Confused word:
El sistema es ineficiente y desperdicia recursos.
The system is inefficient and wastes resources.
Notes: Both words have negative connotations but address different aspects of inadequacy.
Mnemonic: 'Insuficiente' relates to quantity (not sufficient), while 'ineficiente' relates to quality or performance (not efficient).
Explanation: 'Insuficiente' typically refers to quantity that doesn't meet requirements, while 'deficiente' often implies a qualitative lack or defect.
Confused word:
El servicio es deficiente en varios aspectos.
The service is deficient in several aspects.
Notes: 'Deficiente' can also be used in contexts related to disabilities or impairments.
Mnemonic: Think of 'insuficiente' as 'not enough' and 'deficiente' as 'having defects'.