What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
weakest
Example
The weakest link in the chain caused the whole thing to break. [weakest: adjective]
Example
His argument was the weakest of all the presentations. [weakest: noun]
inadequate
Example
The company's response to the crisis was inadequate. [inadequate: adjective]
Example
The student's performance was deemed inadequate by the teacher. [inadequate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inadequate is more commonly used than weakest in everyday language. Inadequate is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while weakest is less common and often used in comparative situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between weakest and inadequate?
Inadequate is generally considered more formal than weakest. While weakest can be used in both formal and informal contexts, inadequate is often used in professional or academic settings to describe shortcomings or deficiencies.