sufficient - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sufficient Word Meanings
- adequate in amount or degree
- enough to meet the needs
- being of a quality that is acceptable
sufficient Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sufficient Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/səˈfɪʃ.ənt/
US
/səˈfɪʃ.ənt/
sufficient Word Etymology
suf- = under + ficere = to make/do (Latin). Originates from Latin 'sufficiens' → Old French 'suffisant' → English. Imagine a container that is filled just enough to hold its contents without overflowing.
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 reach for a glass and turn the tap, watching the water begin to flow. I push the knob a little more, then pull back, adjusting the stream until the pour feels balanced. I hold the glass steady and keep counting the seconds, sensing when the amount looks right. When I let it rest, I feel a quiet sense that the amount is enough to do the task.
Real Context
Although enough can mean having as much as needed, sufficient emphasizes adequacy rather than abundance. The adjective describes a level that meets requirements without excess or shortfall. In usage, sufficient is often followed by for or to specify what is being met such as sufficient funds for the project or not sufficient to cover all costs. It sits between moderate and adequate, signaling a sanctioned threshold rather than brilliance or generosity. In formal writing you may see phrases such as sufficient evidence or sufficient cause. Learners should watch for subtle contrasts with adequate and enough, which depend on context and nuance rather than a strict rule.
Usage Reminders
- Use sufficient to express just enough in formal contexts
- Pair with for or to specify what is being met
- Do not use sufficient to mean abundant; use generous or plenty for that nuance
- Expect collocations like sufficient to do something or sufficient for the project
- Compare with adequate and enough to choose the right shade of meaning
Common Misconceptions
- sufficient equals plenty or generous in amount
- sufficient can always replace enough in informal speech
- sufficient describes quantity; it always refers to money
- you must use sufficient with for or to in every sentence
- sufficient is never ambiguous in formal writing
Thinking Differences
Sufficient is a threshold term that sounds formal in English; learners often mistake it for a softer level like plenty and may mix it with enough in casual contexts.
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations with sufficient to and sufficient for
- compare sufficient with enough and adequate to sense nuance
- practice formal writing and notice where it fits
- create context based sentences to solidify usage
- listen for sufficient in lectures or reports
- review mistakes by replacing with enough and noting tone
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'sufficient'?
A.Adequate
B.Emerge
C.Discover
D.Travel
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses 'sufficient' correctly?
A.He couldn't finish his meal because it was sufficient.
B.She had sufficient sleep last night.
C.The party had a sufficient amount of decorations.
D.I am planning a vacation to a sufficient destination.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'sufficient'?
A.Plentiful
B.Run
C.Happy
D.Read
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'sufficient'?
A.Close
B.Eat
C.Scant
D.Build
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where having 'sufficient' resources is important?
A.I am planning a trip to the moon.
B.I always make sure to have enough money stored for emergencies.
C.I never prepare for exams in advance.
D.I eat out every day.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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