not enough
/nɒt ɪˈnʌf/
Meaning
This expression describes a quantity that is less than what is needed, wanted, or required. It can modify nouns, adjectives, or verbs to show that something is insufficient.
Examples
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There is not enough food for all the guests.
There is not enough food for all the guests.
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I'm sorry, but that is not enough information to solve the problem.
I'm sorry, but that is not enough information to solve the problem.
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We don't have enough time to finish the project today.
We don't have enough time to finish the project today.
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Eight hours is not enough time to drive to Chicago.
Eight hours is not enough time to drive to Chicago.
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She realized there was not enough money in her bank account.
She realized there was not enough money in her bank account.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The tea is not enough hot.
✓ The tea is not hot enough.
When modifying an adjective, 'enough' must go after the adjective, not before it.
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✗ We don't have money enough for a new car.
✓ We don't have enough money for a new car.
When modifying a noun, 'enough' goes before the noun.
Related Expressions
Practice
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I need to buy more eggs because there are ___ to make a cake.
💡 There are fewer eggs than needed.
Show answer
not enough
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She couldn't buy the dress because she had ___ money.
💡 Her money was less than the price.
Show answer
not enough