Guide 122 / 200 4 swaps Formal register
Professional words for “enough”
Four formal words for "enough."
i · When it mattersTwo lines, no filler
"Enough" is plain and fine — but in formal writing, "sufficient" is the reach; "adequate" is meeting a standard (sometimes damningly so); "ample" is generous; "commensurate" is properly proportional.
ii · The swaps4 ways
- 01Sufficient neutral
meets the need
Sufficient coverage for the launch.
- 02Adequate neutral
meets the minimum — not praise
Adequate but not exceptional results.
Watch out Often sounds faintly damning. Use with care in appraisals. - 03Ample formal
generously more than enough
Ample runway for the pivot.
- 04Commensurate formal
properly proportional
Compensation commensurate with experience.