enough - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
enough Word Meanings
- sufficient in quantity
- fully adequate
- to a satisfactory degree
enough Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
enough Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈnʌf/
US
/ɪˈnʌf/
enough Word Etymology
enough: en- = in, enough = sufficiency; Origin: Old English → Middle English → Modern English; Imagine a table filled with food, where every space is filled just as you need it.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I hold the mug steady, tilt the kettle, and watch the coffee arc into the cup. I adjust the pour’s pace, keep my wrist firm, and watch the liquid level settle. When the surface quiets, there’s enough in the moment to move on. That calm balance travels with me to the next task, guiding small decisions without words.
Real Context
Enough is a flexible word for saying something is sufficient. It marks that what you have meets a need, whether you are counting items, judging quality, or allowing a bit of time or effort. With countable nouns, enough usually follows the noun phrase: 'enough chairs', 'enough sugar', 'not enough money'. With adjectives and adverbs, it typically comes after the thing it modifies: 'strong enough', 'fast enough'. It can also be used with 'enough to' + verb to show capability: 'It's enough to make a decision'. In everyday talk you will hear 'not quite enough' or 'more than enough'. Imagine a table filled with food, where every space is filled just as you need it.
Usage Reminders
- - Use enough after a noun phrase for countable nouns.
- - Place after adjectives/adverbs when describing degree: 'strong enough', 'fast enough'.
- - Use 'not enough' to express insufficiency.
- - Use 'enough to' + verb to show capability.
- - Be mindful of 'more than enough' and 'not quite enough' as common intensifiers.
Common Misconceptions
- Not everything wrong is 'enough'—you may have plenty but still not enough for a task.
- Mistaking 'enough' for 'too' as a positive vs negative polarity.
- Thinking 'enough' always means a large amount; it can be small but sufficient.
- Confusing 'enough' with 'enough of' when the noun is plural or countable vs uncountable.
- Using 'enough' before adjectives (e. g., 'enough fast') is incorrect; use after the adjective: 'fast enough'.
Thinking Differences
Think of enough as a flexible gauge of sufficiency; English often blends quantity, quality, and capability in one word, which can trick learners into over- or underestimating needs.
Learning Tips
- Practice 'enough' with countable nouns (enough chairs) and with adjectives (fast enough).
- Memorize common collocations: not enough, more than enough, enough to + verb.
- Compare with 'plenty' to express abundance vs sufficiency.
- Pay attention to placement after adjectives: 'strong enough' not 'enough strong'.
- Use visual metaphors (table filled just right) to recall sufficiency.
- Review translations to your language to spot false friends.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'enough' correctly?
A.He had enough to finish the race.
B.She ran enough after the cake.
C.The cat is big enough to fit through the door.
D.The book was enough interesting to put down.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'enough'?
A.Slow
B.Sad
C.Plenty
D.Orange
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'enough'?
A.Talk
B.Tired
C.Scarcity
D.Yellow
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario using 'enough'?
A.She painted her room a bright color.
B.The dog barked loudly in the park.
C.The store had enough inventory to last through the holiday season.
D.The students played in the schoolyard.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App