What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
appropriately
Example
She dressed appropriately for the job interview. [appropriately: adverb]
Example
He handled the situation appropriately by apologizing. [appropriately: adverb]
adequately
Example
The team was adequately prepared for the presentation. [adequately: adverb]
Example
She answered the questions adequately to pass the exam. [adequately: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adequately is more commonly used than appropriately in everyday language. Adequately is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while appropriately is less common and is often used in more formal or specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between appropriately and adequately?
While adequately can be used in both formal and informal contexts, appropriately is typically associated with a more formal tone and is commonly used in professional or social settings.
