be sufficient
/biː səˈfɪʃənt/verb phrase★Intermediate
general
to be enough or adequate for a particular purpose
The evidence is sufficient to prove the case.
The evidence meets the requirements to prove the case.
She has sufficient experience for the job.
She has enough experience to qualify for the job.
💡
Often used in formal or professional contexts to indicate adequacy.
Collocations
be sufficient forto meet the needs ofbe sufficient toto be enough to achieve
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
sufficientlyadverb
to a satisfactory degree
💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal
Use 'be sufficient' in formal contexts; in casual speech, 'be enough' is more common.
⚡Gold Rule
Precision
Use 'be sufficient' when referring to meeting exact requirements, not just general adequacy.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'sufficient' (14th century), from Latin 'sufficientia' (enoughness), from 'sufficere' (to be enough).
📝Usage Notes
Commonly used in formal writing, legal documents, and professional contexts to indicate that something meets necessary standards.
Word Breakdown
be
to exist or have a state
verbsufficient
enough or adequate
adjectiveEnglish Dictionary