What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scarce
Example
Water is becoming increasingly scarce in this region. [scarce: adjective]
Example
The company had to pay a premium for scarce resources. [scarce: noun]
inadequate
Example
The school's budget is inadequate to cover all the necessary expenses. [inadequate: adjective]
Example
The proposed solution was deemed inadequate by the committee. [inadequate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inadequate is more commonly used than scarce in everyday language. Inadequate is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while scarce is less common and often used in specific situations where a resource is limited or rare.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between scarce and inadequate?
Both scarce and inadequate are neutral words that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
