good enough
Meaning
Adequate; meets the minimum standard or requirement, even if not perfect.
Origin
From the plain literal phrase “good enough,” used since at least the 1800s to mark adequacy rather than excellence; it became a set way to contrast “sufficient” with “perfect.”
Notes
Often implies adequacy but not excellence. It can sound dismissive or pragmatic depending on tone/context (e.g., quality control, deadlines).
Examples
-
The prototype isn’t perfect, but it’s good enough to show investors what we’re building.
-
I can’t find my dress shoes, so these sneakers will have to be good enough for tonight.
-
Her explanation was good enough for me, and I didn’t press for more details.
-
If the video is clear and the audio is decent, that’s good enough for the class project.
-
We’re short on time, so let’s pick a solution that’s good enough and move on.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Commonly used as an adjective/predicate (“It’s good enough”), or after a noun (“a good-enough solution”). Can be intensified (“not quite good enough,” “more than good enough”).
Synonyms
- adequate
- sufficient
- acceptable
- passes muster
- up to scratch
Antonyms
- not good enough
- insufficient
- inadequate