student asking question

What are the differences between “adequate”, “right” and “correct”?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Great question. "Right" and "correct" are basically synonyms, they usually are used interchangeably. However, I'd use "correct" for more formal conversation or as a verb. Ex: The mathematical proof was shown to be correct. Ex: He really has to correct his behavior. While the word "adequate" is used to say that something is as much or as good as necessary for some requirement or purpose. You can think of it as having a similar meaning and use as "enough" and "sufficient". It suggests that something is good enough or large enough for a particular purpose. Ex: We don't need a bigger bucket. This is adequate. Ex: Your performance tonight was adequate but I know you can do better.

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